Tenant Lab UK

Setting up your new home can be exciting — but it also comes with a checklist of practical jobs. Utilities and council tax are usually at the top. So, who’s responsible? How do you get set up? What help is available?

Here’s everything tenants need to know, all in one place.

If you register with Tenant Lab UK we can offer assistance in setting you up, monitoring your payments and making sure a record is kept to challenge unfair charges.

What Are Utilities?

In the UK, “utilities” generally refer to essential services that provide electricity, water, and gas to households and businesses. These services are often regulated and provided by public authorities, public undertakings, or private companies.  Typically they include:

• Electricity
• Water
• Council Tax (more on this below)
• Gas (only if the property has a supply)

Who is responsible?

Unless your tenancy agreement says otherwise, you as the tenant are responsible for setting up and paying these bills from the day your tenancy starts.

Check your tenancy agreement — some rents are “bills included,” particularly for student houses or HMOs (House in Multiple Occupation). If they’re not included, the responsibility is yours.

How Do I Find Out Who My Utility Suppliers Are?

When you move in, your landlord or letting agent should give you the supplier info. If they don’t, here’s how you can find out:

Electricity & Gas

1. Electricity – Contact your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO). Or use this site:
   👉 www.powercut105.com to find your electricity network and supplier.
2. Gas – Use the Find My Supplier tool:
   👉 www.findmysupplier.energy

Water

Water suppliers are regional and don’t overlap. Find yours via postcode here:
👉 http://www.water.org.uk/advice-for-customers/find-your-supplier

How to Read Your Meters

You’ll need meter readings when you:

• Register with a supplier
• Avoid being charged for energy you didn’t use
• Move out

Electricity and Gas Meters

• Digital meters show readings in kilowatt hours (kWh)
• Dial meters are older and trickier – write down the numbers from left to right (ignore red dials)

📸 Tip: Take a photo with your phone for proof.

Water Meters

Many properties have no water meter or an automated one outside the property. Check with your water company when you register.

How to Register With a Utility Provider

Once you know your supplier you will need to register with them. Tenant Lab UK can do this for registered tenants if you are unsure.

You will need call or visit their website and have an email address to open an online account.

You will need to provide:

• Your name (we recommend all tenants be on the account)
• Address
• Tenancy start date
• Opening meter readings

⏱️ Do this ASAP to avoid being charged at the wrong rate or for someone else’s usage.

Council Tax – What Is It, and Do Tenants Pay?

Yes, in most cases, tenants are responsible for paying council tax. This is a local tax paid to your local authority for services like bin collection, road maintenance, and police funding.

To find your council and rates:
👉 http://www.gov.uk/pay-council-tax

We have been made aware of Councils becoming more aggressive with their billing. We can assist members of Tenant Lab UK to monitor their billing and payments so they are not unfairly charged.

Are There Council Tax Discounts or Exemptions for Tenants?

Absolutely – you could save hundreds if you qualify. Here are the main ones:

Full Exemptions

You don’t pay council tax if:

• You’re a full-time student in a student-only household
• You’re under 18
• You’re a live-in carer for someone not your spouse/partner
• The property is empty due to bereavement or legal restriction

Discounts

You may get 25% off if:

• You live alone
• You’re the only adult in the home
• You live with full-time students or severely mentally impaired individuals

Apply directly through your local council’s website.

🚨 Final Tips Before You Move In

• Document everything — photos of meter readings and condition of property
• Notify suppliers right away to avoid unexpected bills
• Ask for proof from your landlord or agent about any included bills

💬 Got questions about your tenancy or utilities? Drop us a comment or contact TenantLab.co.uk – we’re here to help renters stay informed and protected.

Summary

What?	Who Pays?	How to Set Up
Electricity	Tenant (unless stated otherwise)	Check supplier, take readings, register
Gas	Tenant	Same as electricity
Water	Tenant	Find regional supplier, take meter reading
Council Tax	Tenant (usually)	Register with local authority
Broadband/TV	Tenant	Choose and install your preferred provider