How to change gas and electricity provider - just follow our ten-step guide

1 BRING your account up to date by providing your supplier with the latest meter reading.

2 DIG out the relevant paperwork showing your annual energy usage and current tariff type.

3 COMPARE different tariff prices with your existing one using switching websites such as TheEnergyShop and uSwitch.

4 CHECK energy supplier customer reviews. Once you have a list of cheaper deals, find out which company is worth moving to. Consumer review website Trustpilot is a good place to start, although most price comparison websites also show reviews and ratings for suppliers.

5 CALL the energyhelpline switching service on 0800 074 0745 if you do not have access to the internet. Or at the very least ask your existing provider for details of cheaper tariffs it offers.

6 BE assured you will not be without energy supply during a switchover. Some providers offer further safeguards under the Energy Switch Guarantee. Visit energyswitchguarantee.com. A transfer will take around three weeks. 7 TELL your new supplier you want to initiate a switch. It will inform the old supplier on your behalf.

8 TAKE a meter reading on the day of the switch to give to the new provider.

9 SETTLE your final bill with your old supplier or get any credit refunded.

10 FIND guidance by visiting ofgem.gov. uk/consumers/energy-guides.