Looking for easy ways to save on bills at home? Household bills in the UK have spiked once again this spring, but don’t panic. There are plenty of free, simple things you can do right now to bring your bills back under control.

Here are ten straightforward ways to save on bills and utilities!

1. Renew your broadband contract

Has your broadband contract expired? If you’re outside your initial contract period, you’re probably overpaying for your broadband connection. Check if you can renew or switch your plan to save money, and read our guide to haggling your broadband contract to find ways to save even more.

2. Switch your energy tariff

Rising oil and gas prices are expected to send energy bills climbing this summer, but you can beat the spike by switching to a fixed-rate tariff and locking in your unit rates.

Already on a fixed-rate tariff? You can still save on bills by saving energy at home – plus you’ll be cutting your carbon footprint.

3. Check your Council Tax band (and any discounts)

Thousands of UK homes are in the wrong Council Tax band and are overpaying by hundreds of pounds a year. Find out how to check and contest your band, and claim Council Tax discounts in our full guide.

4. Install a water meter

Do you use less water than the average household? If so, you can cut your water bill by installing a water meter and only paying for the water you actually use. Households with fewer occupants than bedrooms tend to save the most.

5. Check whether you need a TV licence

Are you paying for a TV licence? If you don’t watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer, you may not legally need one. The rules are set by GOV.UK – check the criteria and our full guide to TV licence rules before you renew.

6. Cut the home phone line

Half of UK households still have a landline phone, despite only 15% of us using one regularly. If you’re still paying for a landline you don’t need, cutting the cord is an easy way to save on bills.

7. Bundle your services

Are you paying separately for your broadband, TV, streaming services and mobile contract? Bundling them together will save you money, as well as unlocking extra perks like a broadband speed boost or more mobile data every month.

8. Shop around for insurance

When was the last time you renewed your insurance? Comparing available policies, whether through an online service or an expert insurance broker, could save you £100s while still protecting you from potential disasters.

9. Get a smart meter

Do you know how much energy you’re using? From lights left on to sneaky vampire devices, it might be more than you think. Installing a smart meter helps you keep track of how much gas and electricity you’re using at any moment – plus it automatically sends your usage data to your supplier so you only pay for what you actually use.

10. Pay by direct debit

Did you know that many utility suppliers offer discounts based on how you pay? Switch to paying by direct debit, and you won’t only save on the stress of arranging payments every month – you can also save money on your bills.

Sources: GOV.UK – Council Tax bands, GOV.UK – TV licence, Ofgem – smart meters.

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Gas prices and electricity bills in the UK move together, and that’s costing households money. Even though renewables now generate more than half of the country’s power, the price you pay for electricity is still mostly set by the cost of gas. With international conflict pushing wholesale gas higher, ministers are now looking at whether to decouple the two – a change that could meaningfully cut your bills.

Note for April 2026: Wholesale gas prices remain volatile due to ongoing geopolitical pressure on global supply. If you’re on a variable tariff, your bill is directly exposed to those swings.

How gas prices set UK electricity bills

Whether your tariff is set by the energy price cap or you’ve switched to a fixed rate tariff, the price you pay for electricity is determined by the wholesale cost of electricity. That wholesale cost is in turn set by the cost of generating each unit of power.

The UK energy grid uses a system called marginal pricing. Under marginal pricing, the wholesale market price of energy is based on the most expensive unit of electricity needed to meet demand at any given moment. So if most of the nation’s power is being generated by cheap renewable sources but a small shortfall is being met by gas-fired power stations, every unit of electricity sold in that period is priced as if it came from gas.

The result: 98% of the time, the wholesale market cost of electricity is determined by gas prices, even though more than half of UK electricity comes from renewables.

Why are UK gas prices so high right now?

Gas prices across the world jumped after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The majority of the UK’s gas comes from Norway, but the drop in supply from Russia meant more European countries turning to Norwegian gas for their own needs, driving wholesale prices upwards.

The UK also imports liquid natural gas (LNG) from the US and Qatar. As the US-Iran conflict threatens energy production across the world, analysts are warning that domestic energy prices could rise sharply in response. Some industry experts believe the average household will pay £2,500 a year for energy in 2026.

Because gas sets the electricity price 98% of the time, every spike in wholesale gas feeds straight through into the price cap and into household electricity bills.

Could Labour decouple gas prices from electricity bills?

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has said he is considering options for severing the link between gas prices and electricity prices for UK customers. This is part of the government’s wider Review of Electricity Market Arrangements (REMA), which is examining how to redesign the wholesale market so that customers benefit from cheap renewable generation.

Ecotricity owner Dale Vince has proposed a bidding system that would mean wholesale electricity prices are no longer pegged to the most expensive unit of generation used. Green party leader Zack Polanski has also called for gas and electricity prices to be decoupled.

Miliband has said he is reviewing the proposals, but has not yet committed to a specific reform timetable. Any change would be one of the most significant shake-ups of the UK electricity market in decades, and would directly affect what shows up on your bill.

What decoupling could mean for your bills?

If gas prices and electricity bills in the UK are decoupled, customers should see wholesale electricity costs fall closer to the average cost of generation, not the most expensive unit. That could mean:

• Lower unit rates for electricity, particularly during periods of high renewable output
• Less exposure to international gas price shocks
• A clearer link between investment in renewables and lower household bills

The trade-off: redesigning the market is complex, and any reform needs to keep enough gas capacity online to cover demand on cold, still days. That’s why the review is taking time, and why no firm changes have been announced.

How to protect your energy bills from price hikes

If you’re worried about your energy prices rising, there are a few things you can do right now to keep your bills under control.

The first is to switch to a fixed-rate energy tariff. A fixed tariff guarantees the unit rates you pay for gas and electricity stay the same for the duration of the deal – usually at least one year. That protects you from any further price cap increases while your fix is in place.

Switch to a fixed rate energy tariff in minutes with one free call to Please Connect Me, and know your energy prices are protected.

You can also keep bills low by reducing your energy consumption. We’ve put together more than 100 energy-saving tips for you to try – why not start by getting your home ready for an energy-efficient summer?

Questions bout gas prices and electricity bills in the UK

Why do gas prices affect electricity bills in the UK?

Because the UK uses marginal pricing, the wholesale price of electricity is set by the most expensive unit of power needed to meet demand. Gas-fired plants are usually the most expensive unit, so gas sets the electricity price around 98% of the time – even when most power on the grid is coming from cheaper renewables.

If most UK electricity comes from renewables, why is it still expensive?

More than half of UK electricity comes from renewable sources, but renewables don’t usually set the wholesale price. As long as a single gas plant is needed to balance the grid, every unit of electricity is priced as if it came from gas, so cheap renewable generation does not yet feed through to lower bills.

What is decoupling gas and electricity prices?

Decoupling means changing the way wholesale electricity is priced so that gas no longer sets the rate by default. Proposals include a bidding system or splitting the market so renewable generation is priced separately from gas. The aim is for customers to pay closer to the average cost of generation rather than the most expensive unit.

Will my electricity bill go down if Labour decouples gas and electricity?

If reform goes ahead and works as intended, wholesale electricity costs should fall, particularly during periods of high renewable output. That should feed through into lower unit rates on the price cap and on standard variable tariffs. The exact savings depend on the design of the reform and how often gas is still needed on the grid.

How can I protect my bills from gas price spikes today?

The most direct way to protect yourself from gas price spikes is to switch to a fixed rate tariff, which locks in your unit rates for the length of the deal. Reducing your energy consumption – through insulation, smart heating controls and lower-wattage appliances – also limits how exposed you are to wholesale price changes.

Sources: The Guardian, Sky News, GOV.UK – Review of Electricity Market Arrangements, Ofgem.

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Did you know that more than half of Brits lose things while moving? A recent HMRC research found that 77% of people are stressed about keeping track of their belongings during a move. Moving home is stressful enough as it is – so we looked at the most commonly lost items when moving home, and how to make sure nothing goes missing in the chaos.

What are the most common things people lose when moving home?

A survey of 1,000 UK adults identified the items most frequently lost during a house move. These were the top 20.

1. Chargers – more than 30% of people lose these in a move
2. Screws needed to reassemble furniture
3. Clothing
4. Books
5. One sock or shoe
6. Tools
7. TV remote
8. Jewellery
9. Toiletries
10. Photographs
11. Small appliances (hairdryer, kettle)
12. Gardening equipment
13. Financial documents – 59% of people say important documents are what they most worry about losing
14. Money
15. Reading glasses
16. Wall clocks
17. Game controllers
18. Family heirlooms
19. Passport
20. Furniture

How to avoid losing things when moving home

Now you know the things most likely to go missing, here are the top tips from moving experts for keeping track of everything during your move.

Pack a day-one bag

One of the most effective ways to reduce moving stress is to pack a dedicated day-one bag or box – a single container holding everything you’ll need the moment you arrive. Good things to include are chargers, a change of clothes, medications, toiletries, snacks, clean bedding and a towel. Keeping essentials separate means you won’t be tearing open boxes at midnight looking for your toothbrush.

Bag your screws

The screws needed to reassemble furniture are one of the most commonly misplaced items during a move. Nobody wants to arrive at their new home and find they can’t put the bed together. Avoid this by sealing all screws and small components in a labelled sandwich bag, then taping it securely to one of the pieces of dismantled furniture it belongs to.

Use a moving checklist

Plan your move with a thorough moving checklist and tick off items as you load and unload them. This makes it easy to spot anything that hasn’t made it to your new address. Professional movers say it is surprisingly common to leave mirrors, clocks and paintings behind – items you’re so used to seeing that they fade into the background on moving day.

Label every box by room and number

While packing your boxes, label each one with its destination room and a sequence number – for example, “Living room 1 of 6”. If a box goes missing, you’ll know immediately. You can then check whether it was left on the van, in the old property, or just placed in the wrong room at the new one.

Declutter before you pack

The fewer items you have to move, the lower the chance of losing something important. Decluttering before your move also saves time, reduces the number of boxes you need and can cut the cost of your removal. If in doubt, get rid of it – you can always replace it.

Use proper packing boxes

Flimsy boxes split and spill their contents – often without you noticing until something is already lost. Proper packing boxes are worth the investment, but if you’d rather not spend the money, we have a guide to sourcing free moving boxes near you.

Photograph valuables before packing

For jewellery, family heirlooms and important documents, take a photo before they go into a box. This gives you a visual record of what is missing and is also useful for insurance purposes. Store the photos in a cloud folder so they’re accessible from any device during the move.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most commonly lost item when moving home?

Chargers are the most commonly lost item during a house move, with more than 30% of people reporting losing one. Furniture screws, clothing and important documents are also among the top items people misplace. Packing a dedicated day-one bag and labelling all boxes by room and number are the two most effective ways to reduce losses.

How do I keep track of my belongings during a move?

Use a numbered labelling system for your boxes – for example, “Kitchen 3 of 5” – and keep a written or digital inventory. Tick off boxes as they are loaded and again as they are unloaded. For small or high-value items, keep them in a dedicated bag that stays with you throughout the move rather than going on the van.

What documents do I need to keep safe when moving home?

Financial documents, passports and utility records are among the most commonly lost – and most important to protect. Keep documents in a clearly labelled folder in your day-one bag rather than in a removal box. You can find a full list of the documents you will need when setting up your new home in our guide to essential moving documents.

Should I update my address when I move?

Yes – updating your address promptly helps to ensure important post reaches you and avoids issues with banks, utilities and government services. You can use the Royal Mail redirection service to forward post from your old address while you update your details, and the GOV.UK address change service to notify HMRC and other government bodies in one place.

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From energy to broadband, most household bills go up in April – but why? We’ve broken down which household bills increase at the start of April, so you can plan your budget and keep your bills under control.

Why do council tax bills go up in April?

Council Tax bills across the UK rise on April 1st, with the new rate applying for the next year. Council Tax – like other taxes in the UK – follows the financial year. The first day of the financial year is April 6th, but for simplicity, local councils adjust their billing from the start of the month.

Why is the first day of the financial year April 6th?

Originally, New Year’s Day was celebrated on March 25th, the religious festival of Lady Day. In 1752 the UK shifted from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar, which was 11 days ahead. So as not to lose tax revenue, the start of the year was also moved. Initially, the new start date was April 5th – it was adjusted to April 6th to account for the leap year, and has stayed that way ever since.

How much does council tax increase?

Local councils are typically permitted to raise tax by a maximum of 5% each year. In 2026, the majority of local authorities used the maximum permitted increase. In addition, 7 local authorities received special permission to further increase rates to help them meet budget shortfalls. Find out more here.

When do energy bills go up?

Unlike council tax, energy bills are not adjusted once a year in April. Instead, when your bills change depends on the type of energy tariff you have and your energy usage.

If you are on a fixed rate tariff, your per-unit rates and standing charges will stay fixed for the length of your contract. Your bills will be adjusted throughout the year based on how much energy you use.

If you are on a variable tariff, your per-unit rates and standing charges will be adjusted four times a year when the energy price cap is adjusted – January 1st, April 1st, July 1st and October 1st.

The energy price cap is based on wholesale energy prices, and is determined more than a month ahead of the actual change. On April 1st the price cap dropped 6.6%, but experts currently predict the Iran war and the rising cost of oil and gas will cause a sharp increase when the price cap is next adjusted.

Will my water bill increase in April?

Water bills go up in April as well, with rates adjusted at the start of the financial year. In 2026 every water supplier in the UK will increase rates for customers, with an average annual increase of £33 or around 5.4%.

The increase varies between water suppliers. Find out how your water bills are changing here, as well as why water prices are rising.

The TV licence fee has changed

Another bill that rose at the start of April is the cost of a TV licence. The new licence fee is £180 a year – an increase of £5.50. The good news is that the increase only applies to licences that renew after April 1st. If you pay your licence fee annually, you won’t pay the increased rate until it next renews.

Mid-contract price increases in April

The financial year starting in April is also the reason for mid-contract price rises for broadband, TV and mobile kicking in at this time of year. If your initial agreement included a mid-contract price rise, it will usually come into effect the following April. You can find out more about mid-contract price rises – and how to avoid them – here.

Frequently asked questions about household bills going up in April

Why do most household bills go up in April?

Most household bills increase in April because they are tied to the UK financial year, which begins on 6 April. Council tax and water bills are reset at the start of each financial year. Energy bills on variable tariffs are updated quarterly, with April 1st being one of the four change dates. Broadband, TV and mobile mid-contract price rises are also typically applied in April.

Can I challenge my council tax band?

Yes. If you think your property is in the wrong council tax band – which is more common than many people realise – you can make a formal challenge. If successful, you could be moved to a lower band and receive a backdated refund. You can check your band and start the process on the GOV.UK council tax band challenge page.

Should I fix my energy tariff before the next price cap change?

If the price cap is expected to rise in July, switching to a fixed rate tariff could protect you from that increase for the length of your contract. Whether this makes sense depends on the deals available and how long you want to be locked in. Compare current fixed deals against the predicted price cap before deciding.

Do I need a TV licence?

You need a TV licence if you watch live TV on any channel or device, or if you watch or download BBC content via iPlayer. You do not need one if you only watch on-demand content from non-BBC providers such as Netflix or ITVX. You can check whether you need a licence on the TV Licensing website.

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Finding the best broadband in the UK isn’t as simple as it sounds – because the best broadband provider for you depends on what you actually value most.

While some households want the fastest possible speeds to download large files and stream in 4K without buffering, others prioritise rock-solid reliability, or want the peace of mind of excellent customer support when things go wrong. Prices, contract lengths and coverage also vary widely between providers.

We’ve broken down the best UK broadband providers by category, so you can cut straight to the supplier that matches your priorities – whether that’s speed, service, reliability or a flexible mobile broadband option.

Quick comparison: best broadband providers UK 2026

Best broadband for speed

For many households, the best broadband is simply the fastest one available in their area. Coverage varies significantly by provider, so the right choice depends on where you live.

CityFibre is currently the UK’s fastest broadband network, with a maximum network speed of 5.5 Gbps. The catch is coverage: CityFibre is still expanding its full-fibre infrastructure and is only available at a limited number of properties. That said, the network is growing rapidly through partnerships with a wide range of broadband resellers.

Virgin Media is the fastest broadband provider with wide UK coverage, offering speeds of up to 1.1 Gbps to more than 55% of UK homes. If you want genuinely fast broadband without waiting for CityFibre to reach your street, Virgin Media is the strongest widely available option.

Best broadband for customer service

If you care more about the quality of your experience than raw speed, it’s worth choosing a provider based on how well they treat their customers – especially when something goes wrong.

According to Ofcom, the UK’s telecoms regulator, EE customers report the highest levels of satisfaction among major broadband providers, while Sky Broadband customers make the fewest complaints.

Among independent broadband providers, Hyperoptic stands out for customer service. It has won multiple industry awards, holds a top-tier rating from consumer advice service Which?, and has more 5-star Trustpilot reviews than BT, Sky, Virgin Media, EE and Plusnet combined – a remarkable feat for a smaller provider.

Most reliable broadband in the UK

For anyone who works from home, plays online games, or simply can’t afford frequent dropouts, reliability is the most important factor in choosing a broadband provider.

According to Uswitch’s 2026 broadband customer survey, the three most reliable UK broadband providers are:

1. BT – 4.19 out of 5 for reliability
2. Plusnet – 4.18 out of 5
3. EE – 4.17 out of 5

EE also scored the highest overall in the same survey with 4.18 out of 5, making it one of the strongest all-round choices for customers who want a provider that delivers across speed, reliability, and customer service – without paying a premium price.

Best mobile broadband in the UK

All of the providers above offer traditional wired broadband (ADSL or fibre), but not every home in the UK has access to a high-quality fixed-line connection. An increasing number of households are turning to mobile broadband – using 4G or 5G signals – as their primary internet solution.

Among mobile broadband providers, our top recommendation is Connectivity, which stands out for several reasons:

• Affordable 4G and 5G broadband plans with no hidden costs
• Multi-network plans, meaning you can use whichever mobile network has the strongest signal in your area – and switch mid-contract if needed
• No mid-contract price rises guaranteed, unlike many major providers
• High-end equipment included as standard
• UK-based customer support team

This combination makes Connectivity a strong choice for anyone in a rural area, a rental property, or simply somewhere that standard fibre broadband hasn’t yet reached.

Note for renters and rural households: If you’re unsure whether fixed-line fibre is available at your address, use Ofcom’s connected nations coverage checker before committing to a contract.

Frequently asked questions

Which broadband provider is best in the UK?
The best broadband provider in the UK depends on your priorities. For speed, CityFibre (where available) and Virgin Media lead the field. For customer service and reliability, EE scores highest among major providers. For flexible mobile broadband, Connectivity is our top pick.

Who has the fastest broadband in the UK?
CityFibre has the UK’s fastest broadband network, with speeds up to 5.5 Gbps, but availability is limited. For widely available fast broadband, Virgin Media offers up to 1.1 Gbps to over 55% of UK homes.

Which broadband provider has the best customer service?
Among major providers, EE scores highest for customer satisfaction according to Ofcom. Among independent providers, Hyperoptic is the standout choice, with more 5-star Trustpilot reviews than BT, Sky, Virgin Media, EE and Plusnet combined.

What is the most reliable broadband in the UK?
According to Uswitch’s 2026 customer survey, BT is the most reliable UK broadband provider, scoring 4.19 out of 5 in the reliability category, followed closely by Plusnet and EE.

Is mobile broadband good enough as a home internet connection?
Yes – modern 5G mobile broadband can deliver speeds fast enough for streaming, video calls, and working from home. Providers like Connectivity offer multi-network plans that ensure you always connect to the strongest signal in your area.

Sources: Ofcom Connected Nations 2025, Uswitch Broadband Customer Survey 2026, Which? Broadband Reviews, Trustpilot.

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If your broadband, TV or mobile contract is up for renewal, you could save £100s by negotiating a better price. Here’s our best advice for securing an amazing discount on your package.

Top tip! Want to have the experts handle the negotiation? Book a free call with Please Connect Me and let our team secure you a great deal on broadband with our exclusive partner offers.

How to negotiate your broadband contract and save!

1. Make the call

First things first – how to get in touch with your broadband provider. Most broadband companies have multiple ways to get in touch, with different methods for if you’re placing an order or raising a complaint.

To negotiate your broadband contract, reach out by phone to make sure you’re talking to a real person, rather than a chatbot. A phone call also means you’ll be able to negotiate in real time, rather than waiting for emails to be sent back and forth.

Check your broadband supplier’s website for their support phone line for existing customers and its opening hours. Avoid calling close to when the lines close as you might be cut off – lines are generally quietest first thing in the morning.

2. Time it right

The best time to negotiate your broadband contract is when your current contract is up for renewal. Most broadband contracts include a minimum contract period, during which you (usually) can’t leave the contract without penalty. At the end of this period, your monthly price will typically increase – a month before this happens is the perfect time to make the call.

3. Be ready to walk

The reason you want to wait until your initial contract period is over is to put a powerful tool in your negotiation kit – threatening to switch to another provider. Customer service teams are incentivised to keep you on board and renew your contract, so being ready to switch means they will go above and beyond to keep you happy. If you’re not having any luck negotiating with the customer support team, ask to be put through to the cancellations department.

4. Do your research

Threatening to leave is much more effective if you know which provider you would switch to. Find a supplier that’s currently offering a great deal for new customers, and use that price as an example while negotiating. Your current provider will be motivated to match or even beat that price to keep you on board.

Looking for mobile plans? Check out our offers

5. Be firm but polite

The expression ‘you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar’ definitely applies to negotiating your broadband deal. Be direct about the price you would like to pay, and make it clear that you are willing to change suppliers, but don’t speak rudely or aggressively to customer support staff. Not only will the whole conversation be more pleasant for both of you, if you’re a problem customer, then your supplier might decide they don’t want to risk future troublesome interactions and be happy to let you leave without offering you a discount.

6. Don’t accept the first offer

The first price your supplier offers you is almost certainly not the best that they can offer. Stay firm and compare it to the cheapest packages you’ve researched. Even if the provider can’t cut the price further, they might offer other incentives like including a free Netflix subscription or giving your broadband speed a boost.

7. Mention any problems

Have you had problems with your broadband during your contract? Whether it’s speed dips during busy periods or that time a few months ago, your signal was down for the day, mention these issues during the negotiation. It will give more weight to your threats to switch providers, and your current company should try to make it up to you.

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It’s out with maximising insulation and cosy vibes, and in with making the most of natural light, promoting air flow and protecting your property from sun damage. Here are some easy steps you can take over the coming months to get your home summer-ready.

Claim free water-saving gadgets

Saving water is important year-round, but in summer it’s especially vital as reservoir levels drop across the country. Cut water wastage at home by claiming free water-saving devices from Get Water Fit, and install them before we head into drought season.

Maximise natural light

We published this guide to maximising natural light in the wintertime, but many of the tips work for summer too! Making the most of the summer sunshine is an easy way to cut your energy bills, boost your Vitamin D absorption and lift your mood. Keep your curtains open during the day, trim back any plants shading your home and give your windows a quick clean to make sure every ray of light can get in.

Cut the clutter

Getting rid of clutter makes your home feel bigger, more open and easier to move around in. More light during longer summer days can also highlight the mess you’ve been meaning to get rid of. Take some time in the spring to clear our clutter, then enjoy the benefits all summer long.

Top tip! If you’re one of the many people who plan to move home during the summertime, decluttering your possessions is an essential first step.

Get your fridge summer-ready

Your fridge is already one of the most energy-hungry appliances in your home, and the hotter the weather is, the harder it has to work. Fit a fridge door alarm to make sure you’re not leaving it open longer than necessary and letting hot air in. Your fridge also has to work harder if it’s emptier. If there’s empty space on your shelves or doors, then fill some old glass bottles with water to fill the gaps. Your fridge will use less electricity, and you’ll be able to grab a cool drink of water whenever you want – win-win!

Make your garden a summer oasis

If you have a garden, be sure to make the most of it during the warm summer months. Plant flowers to attract butterflies and brighten up the space, trim the grass to create a soft lawn to sunbathe on, or just install some solar-powered lights to take advantage of the free battery in the sky.

Stay cool when things heat up

Few homes in the UK have air conditioning – if you do, make sure to fully test your system and schedule any maintenance or repairs before the first heat wave hits. If you use fans to stay cool in the hot weather, now is the time to pull them out of storage and check they’re working. Better to get a replacement now than when the stores sell out in June!

If you haven’t used your fans since last year, take a few minutes to open them up and give the blades a thorough clean. If they’re dirty, then you’ll be circulating dust through the air this summer instead of a cool breeze.

Store your winter clothes

This is the UK, so it would be silly to suggest you pack all your warm clothing away just yet. However, once we reach May, you should be safe to pack away your thermals, winter coat and thickest jumpers. Use vacuum storage bags to pack clothes tightly and efficiently, then store them under your bed, in the bottom of a wardrobe or in the attic until the autumn.

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To make things simple, here’s a list of the essential organisations to reach out to when moving, as well as our top tips for getting in touch.

Who do you need to contact when you move home?

Every move is different, but there are some essential organisations almost everyone will need to get in touch with when they move.

We’ve divided them into a few categories, with general advice and specifics for each. Follow the links to find more information about how to contact each service.

Your local authority

At the top of the list is your local Council, both current and new. You will need to let your current Council know you are leaving their authority to cancel your ongoing Council Tax payments (and get refunded for any overpayment). Your new local authority will be able to help you set up everything from a controlled parking pass to Council Tax discounts and exemptions (if you qualify).

Registering to vote in local elections is handled separately, so be sure to also join the electoral roll.

• Your current and new Council
• Electoral roll

Utility Providers

Your current utility providers need to know you’re moving so they can stop billing you and refund you any credit you have on your account. Your new providers will want to know the exact time you arrive and the meter readings from that day, which will also prevent you from being charged for any of the previous occupant’s usage.

Reach out to both your current and new:

• Internet provider
• Energy supplier
• Water company

Some services can be brought over to your new property, but the supplier will still need to know about the change of address. Be sure to contact:

• Your mobile provider
• Your pay TV provider
• TV licensing

Workplace and Financial Services

Your employer will need to know about your change of address to keep payroll details up to date, and any financial services you use require accurate address details in case they need to contact you by post, and to verify your identity.

Make sure sensitive information isn’t being sent to your old address and inform your:

• Employer
• Pension fund
• Inland Revenue (HMRC)
• Bank
• Credit card company
• Loan providers
• Insurance provider(s)

Healthcare providers

You may have to move healthcare providers, depending on how far you are moving. If you are moving to a new area, be sure to inform your current providers as well as find and register with a new GP, pharmacy and more.

Even if you’re staying with the same provider, they will need your new address details in order to send you confidential documents, and in the case of pharmacies, because they use it as a way to verify identities.

• Your GP
• Your pharmacist
• Your dentist
• Your optician
• Your vet

Transport

If you drive a car, make sure the address details on your licence, registration and insurance are up to date and contact:

• The DVLA
• Your car insurance provider

Post and deliveries

You can set up a postal redirect (for a fee) that will forward any post sent to your old address to you. At the same time, think of any recurring deliveries or subscriptions you have, and any online stores you use regularly, and update your address to prevent any misdeliveries.

• Royal Mail (find out more about setting up a postal redirection here)
• Any recurring deliveries or subscriptions
• Online grocery services
• Other online shops you use regularly

Handle all your essential services in one call

Sounds like a lot? It certainly can be!

Moving home is already stressful, and the huge number of different organisations you need to contact – each of them requiring slightly different information and using different contact methods – only adds to the headache.

Luckily, you can handle many of the most important registrations with a single call to Please Connect Me. We’ll handle transferring and registering your key utilities, giving you more time to deal with your move – and relax! Sign up today, it’s free!

The post Who to contact when you move: 20+ essential organisations appeared first on Please Connect Me.

We’ve broken down the average broadband bill by connection type and speed. Plus, we’ve included our top tips for cheaper broadband.

What are the different kinds of broadband?

There are 3 primary types of wired broadband connections in the UK: ADSL, FTTC and FTTP.

ADSL (Asymmetric digital subscriber line) broadband is the slowest and most widely available. It relies on the old copper cabling of the landline phone network. ADSL connections are usually cheap, but offer extremely low maximum speeds, making them unsuitable for things like working from home or streaming HD video.

FTTC (Fibre to the cabinet) is the most widespread type of connection today. These internet connections use purpose-built fibre optic cables to carry data as far as a cabinet in your street. Then, the older copper cables complete the final, shortest stage of the journey into your home. They offer a good middle ground of speeds that are suitable for typical use and widespread availability.

FTTP (Fibre to the premises) connections are the fastest, and are being rolled out across more and more of the UK. These connections use fibre optic cabling for the whole journey, all the way into your home and to your router. Top speeds can reach as high as 1Gbps, but only if the network is available in your area.

Read more about the different types of connections and other options, such as mobile broadband, here.

What’s the average broadband bill in the UK?

In the table below, we’ve broken down the average broadband bill for each type of connection by monthly cost. However, there are a few other things to consider when comparing broadband bills.

• Contract Length: Longer contracts usually offer a lower monthly cost to encourage commitment. These can be a good deal, but look in the small print for mid-contract price rises

• Speed: Even among connections of the same time, a higher speed cap usually comes with a higher price tag

• Set-up cost: Different providers charge different upfront costs, or may offer free setup

• Telecoms bundles: You might pay more for a package that includes broadband, mobile and TV services rather than just broadband, but be saving money overall

• Broadband availability: Different broadband providers operate in different areas, so there might be a cheaper-than-average option available for your home

Top tip! Find out about locally available indie broadband options with a free broadband availability check from Please Connect Me

According to the most recent data for 2026 from Uswitch and Ofcom, the average broadband bill in the UK is approximately £31 a month. However, this varies depending on the type of connection and whether you are currently in or out of your initial contract period.

How to cut your broadband bill

Are you paying more than the average broadband bill every month? Luckily, there are lots of easy ways to cut your broadband bill and save money.

Check your contract

Has your original broadband contract expired? Many providers charge one price during the minimum contract period and then raise your monthly price once the contract expires—often by as much as £9 to £10 a month. When this happens, you can save money by re-fixing your contract or by switching to a new provider.

Broadband companies often save their best deals for new customers, so switching is often the cheapest option. In 2026, most major providers have moved to fixed “pounds and pence” annual increases (typically £3 – £4 each April), so factor this into your long-term budget.

Bundle your services

Are you paying separate monthly bills for broadband, mobile and TV? You could save money by bundling your services with one provider. Not only will you pay less each month, but you might also get access to other benefits like a free broadband speed upgrade or a loyalty rewards scheme.

Ditch the landline

You might still be paying for a landline phone service, even if you don’t have one at home. While internet suppliers used to require that you pay line rental for a landline alongside your internet connection, today most broadband connections are available without a landline. Check if you’re still paying for a landline phone, and if you don’t need one anymore – cut the cord!

The post What’s the average broadband bill in 2026: Are you overpaying? appeared first on Please Connect Me.

The conflict has severely impacted supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, creating what analysts call the “biggest supply shock in history.” This uncertainty, combined with today’s Bank of England decision to hold interest rates at 3.75%, suggests that UK households should prepare for a significant hit to their cost of living.

What is the energy price cap?

Originally introduced in 2019, the energy price cap is a maximum value domestic customers can be charged for their gas and electricity. The cap sets an annual charge for a typical household of 3-4 people, with energy suppliers setting unit rates and standing charges based on this total.

Your personal energy bill is still based on how much gas and electricity you use, but the price cap controls how much you pay for each kWh of energy, as well as the daily standing charge you pay for access to the supply.

The price cap is adjusted every three months based on a number of factors, with wholesale energy prices being the most significant. The next price cap change, on April 1st, has already been determined. The next adjustment will be on July 1st, with experts debating how much of a change to expect.

How high will the energy price spike be?

On April 1st, the energy price cap is still set to fall by roughly 7% to £1,641 a year. This is largely due to government policy changes and price trends set before the war escalated in late February. Previously, experts had predicted that the July price cap would rise slightly, by around 4%, to around £1,710 a year.

However, the outlook for July has darkened significantly. Following the attacks on Gulf energy facilities this week, industry analysts are predicting a much sharper energy price spike. Cornwall Insight, which has a history of accurate price cap predictions, has amended its projection to £1,800 a year after wholesale gas prices rose 150% in one day at the start of the month:

• Cornwall Insight: Now predicts the July cap will surge to at least £1,801, a 10% jump.
• Stifel: Warns that if the conflict prolongs, the cap could hit £2,500, returning bills to the peak of the 2022 energy crisis.
• Wholesale Markets: UK gas futures for next month have already more than doubled since the start of the war, hitting 172p per therm today.

How can I beat the energy price spike?

If you’re concerned about the energy price spike, there are several things you can do to keep your energy bills under control. The simplest is to switch to a fixed-rate tariff. This means you will know your unit rates for gas and electricity for the next 12 months (or however long the tariff lasts). Once you’re on a fixed tariff, prices won’t change, even if wholesale gas and oil prices rise.

Top tip! Switching to a fixed tariff today locks in your rates for 12 months, protecting you from further escalations in the Iran conflict. Book a call with Please Connect Me to see your options.

Once you’ve switched to a new tariff, some of the other ways to save on your energy bills include:

• Submit regular meter readings, so you’re only charged for the energy you’ve used
• Save energy where you can – we’ve got more than 100 tips on how to use less energy at home
• Be sure to close your account properly if you switch provider or move – there’s more than £2 million sitting unclaimed in closed energy accounts

The post Energy price spike could see average bills reach £2,500: Don’t get caught out! appeared first on Please Connect Me.