Energy support guide for tenants

Energy bill support route map

Support depends on supplier and household circumstances

Understand which energy support routes may apply to your situation, from supplier hardship funds and priority services registration to local advice when bills or arrears are becoming difficult.

What it means

This page is a plain-English guide, not a live quote or regulated financial advice.

Eligibility first

Start with the rules, evidence and tenancy considerations before looking at headline prices.

Compare carefully

Check contract terms, exclusions and costs that may only appear after the introductory price.

Who this route may help

Tenants worried about arrears, prepayment meters, heating costs or winter bills.

For social housing tenants, the important question is not only whether a deal looks cheap. It is whether the eligibility rules, installation requirements, payment method, contract length and landlord responsibilities fit the household’s real situation.

Eligibility and evidence

Rules vary by supplier, scheme and local area. Households may need evidence of income, benefits, health needs, vulnerability or arrears before a grant or payment plan is considered.

Before applying, keep recent bills, contract dates, benefit letters where relevant and landlord repair information in one place. That makes it easier to compare options and avoid paying for support that should be provided through another route.

Check before applying

  • Whether your supplier offers hardship grants or repayment support
  • Whether anyone at home qualifies for Priority Services Register support
  • What free debt, benefits or energy advice is available locally