When you move house, it’s important to set up new electricity, gas and water accounts and close old ones. Shop around for a good energy offer and know what to do if something goes wrong.
Managing your accounts when you move house
When you move house, set up your electricity, gas and water accounts at least two business days before you move in, or at least 20 business days if it’s a new home that hasn’t been connected before.
Close your old accounts and give your company your new address for your final bill. If you don’t, you might be chased for debt or have a default listed on your credit file.
'Dear Occupier' letters and bills
If you don't set up an energy account, or if something goes wrong, you might receive 'Dear Occupier' letters or bills. Contact the company and explain the situation. If you ignore the bills, you might be chased for debt or have your energy disconnected.
Choosing an energy company and offer
You can usually choose your energy company. Each one has different prices and conditions, so shop around. Victorian Energy Compare is a free, independent website you can use to compare prices.
Energy companies may market to you door-to-door or over the phone. They mustn’t pressure or mislead you, and they can't sign you up unless you agree. Always check the conditions in your contract before signing up. If you change your mind, you can cancel within the ten-day cooling-off period.
Finding your water company
You can’t choose your own water company – each area of Victoria has its own provider, listed on this interactive map.
Problems with switching energy companies
Sometimes, things go wrong when you set up a new account or switch between energy companies. For example:
- the transfer is delayed
- the wrong meter is transferred
- your previous supply isn’t disconnected, or it’s disconnected on the wrong date
- you’re billed for time when you weren't at the property
- the price or contract terms are different to what you agreed.
If something goes wrong when you switch, contact your company. If you can’t sort the problem out directly, EWOV can help.
