Learn how to save on energy bills in shared houses, student flats, and rental accommodation. Discover student-specific energy deals and avoid common overpayment traps.
Contact UsUnderstanding student energy rights and opportunities
Students can save hundreds of pounds per year in shared houses and flats by comparing and switching energy deals.
Despite common myths, being a student does not restrict you from:
The key is understanding how student housing energy works. Student properties often have different energy needs than family homes — lower usage, different meter types, and shorter tenancy periods. Understanding these differences helps you find tariffs that actually work for student living.
The common traps that cost students money
Students frequently overpay for energy due to these common misconceptions and situations:
Staying on expensive deemed (default) tariffs that come with the property, which are rarely competitive.
Assuming energy is "fixed" by the landlord and can't be changed by tenants.
Not realising joint tenants have the right to switch energy suppliers together.
Choosing tariffs designed for family homes rather than low-usage student flats.
Not adjusting for vacant periods during holidays when usage drops significantly.
Inefficient bill splitting leading to disputes and overpayment by some housemates.
Energy suppliers rely on this student inaction — comparison breaks the cycle. Suppliers know students often don't switch, so they keep them on expensive default tariffs. This "student loyalty penalty" can cost shared houses £300-£600 annually. The simple act of comparing energy deals breaks this expensive pattern.
Legal rights and practical restrictions for student tenants
UtilityKing clearly flags when switching is possible — no guesswork. Our comparison tool automatically identifies whether your situation allows supplier switching. If you're in all-inclusive accommodation or halls, we'll tell you upfront, saving you time. If you can switch, we'll show you the best student-friendly deals.
Different energy setups in student accommodation
Typical: 3-5 students, gas & electricity, individual meter
Typical: Studio/1-bed, storage heaters, Economy 7 often
Typical: Older rentals, key/card meters, higher default rates
These features protect students who may move after exams or graduate mid-year. Flexible contracts and no exit fees are essential for the uncertain academic calendar.
Typical savings from switching in student accommodation
| Student Property | Typical Annual Saving | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bed student flat | £150 – £300 | Standing charges critical. Low-usage optimisation essential. |
| Shared house (3–4 students) | £300 – £600 | Higher usage amplifies savings. Clear bill-splitting needed. |
| Electric-only flat | £200 – £400 | Correct tariff type vital. Economy 7 vs standard important. |
| Prepayment property | £100 – £300 | Default rates often highest. Comparison reduces penalty. |
| 2-bed student flat | £200 – £350 | Balance of usage and standing charges. Holiday gaps matter. |
Student usage often peaks in evenings and drops during holidays and exam periods.
Summer and Christmas vacancies reduce annual usage, affecting tariff suitability.
More students = higher usage but also higher savings potential from switching.
Avoid these costly errors in student accommodation
Many students think energy is fixed by landlords, missing switching opportunities.
Remaining on expensive default rates that come with the property.
Locking into 24-month deals when academic year is only 9-10 months.
Focusing only on unit rates, missing that standing charges dominate low-usage bills.
Causing disputes when one housemate is named bill-payer without clear agreement.
Choosing standard tariffs for Economy 7 properties, increasing costs 30-50%.
Switching supplier does not change legal responsibilities — just pricing. The named bill-payer remains responsible, but everyone benefits from lower costs through proper comparison and switching.
Optimised for student usage patterns and shared accommodation needs.
Flags flexible deals without penalties for mid-academic-year moves.
Flags Economy 7 and prepay risks specific to student properties.
Uses precise regional pricing for accurate student area comparisons.
Allows anonymous comparison without sharing details. Students can compare energy prices, view tariffs, and estimate bills without entering email or phone number. Contact details are only required if requesting a tailored quote or deciding to switch. No spam, no pressure — ideal for student users.
Students are not excluded from switching energy — they're just often uninformed. Comparing energy deals reduces shared household costs, prevents disputes, makes budgeting easier, and delivers real savings.
Saves £150-£600 annually for shared houses and student flats through proper comparison.
Clear tariffs and fair bill splitting prevent housemate conflicts over energy costs.
Fixed student-friendly tariffs provide predictable monthly costs for easier budgeting.