British Gas warns customers could be charged someone else’s bill

British Gas has called on customers to take action to ‘avoid any surprise bills’ when moving into a new property. The energy giant has issued guidance for anyone planning a move, outlining essential checks to carry out upon arrival, as “you don’t want to end up paying the last owner’s energy usage”.

The company says the checks help to ensure everything runs smoothly and prevent any unexpected bills. A British Gas employee shared the advice for customers in a social media video. The post warned: “Planning a move? Make sure your new home is running smoothly and avoid any surprise bills! A quick fire alarm test and checking the meter reading are simple steps to get you started.”

In the video, the team member explained: “Moving into a new home can be very exciting, but there are a few things you need to prioritise once you get the keys. Start by taking your meter readings. You don’t want to end up paying the last owner’s energy usage.

“Make sure to check your smoke detector and make sure your carbon monoxide alarm is working properly as well. You can do this by pressing the test button on the surface, and it will make a loud noise. That’s how you know it’s working properly.”

She continued: “Your stopcock is the valve for your main water supply. It’s important that you know where this is, just in case you get a leak in the property.

“Locate your thermostat so you can easily control your heating. And don’t forget to locate your fuse box. This is just in case you have any electrical emergency, so you can turn off your electrics quickly and safely, and you can restore any circuits that may have tripped. If you’re a new homeowner, it’s always advised to get your boiler serviced by a qualified gas engineer.”

British Gas customers can find more information on the company’s website. The energy supplier says: “It’s helpful to ask the sellers, or your new landlord where these things are:

“If you’re selling, make a list of where all the important things are in your home, and leave it for the people moving in.” British Gas also offers a free moving home checklist that customers can print out, reports the Mirror.

British Gas noted that customers can also pay for a Home Health Check to assess the energy efficiency of their property. It said: “Want to find out how much of the energy you pay for is wasted and how to reduce this? Book a Home Health Check for just £75 and one of our energy experts will give you all the answers you need.”