Getting onto supply - what happens next

Find out what happens when you switch over to British Gas

In this article

How long does my switch take?

Why do I need to submit a meter reading if I have a smart meter?

What will happen with my old supplier?

When will I get my first bill?

Will my smart meter work when I switch over?

How long does my switch take?

Switching over to British Gas is easy and usually takes a few days. We’ll let you know by email once you're on supply. We’ll also get in touch with your previous supplier to get everything sorted for you.

Why do I need to submit a meter reading if I have a smart meter?

We'll need an opening meter reading to get your account set up and make sure your first bill is accurate - even if you've got a smart meter. It should just be a one-off, and you won't need to do it again.

What will happen with my old supplier?

Your old supplier will ask for a final meter reading and send your closing bill. If there's any credit left on your account after that, they'll refund it straight back to you.

When will I get my first bill?

Your first bill with us should be ready within a month of you switching to us, unless you decide to go for quarterly billing.

Will my smart meter work when I switch over?

If you've got a smart meter, it'll still work when you switch to us - it just might take a few days for your energy use to show up in your online account or our app.

Back to top of page

Read more like this

Why did my energy price change?

Find out more on Price Cap

Why has my Direct Debit changed?

Find out why

Understanding the Direct Debit Guarantee

Find out more