Phone and Utilities
Household bills will account for a large percentage of your weekly or monthly income. Gas and electricity, landlines and internet bills are normally paid on a monthly basis and are often affected by changes in the economy. There are numerous ways to save money such as switching providers or changing packages. The following articles are a guide to what you should do and how you can save money in the quickest and simplest way possible.
Gas/Electricity
When you move into new accommodation check who the supplier is. Ask the landlord or previous tenants.
If you want to stick with the existing supplier, all you have to do is phone them up and tell them you want to take out a contract. It’s important to provide the supplier with an accurate current reading when you move in, so you are not paying for the previous tenant’s usage.
It is essential when you first move into a new flat or home to provide the supplier with an accurate current reading, of both gas and electricity, so you are not paying for the previous tenant’s usage. If the previous tenant was disconnected ensure you ask about reconnection as soon as possible. In some cases it may be the landlord’s obligation to pay the reconnection fee, and not yours.
more top^
Mobile Phones
The easiest way to make the biggest saving in regard to your mobile bill is to move networks¬ but there a few ways in which you can make savings by staying on the same network¬. The first way to save money is to switch to another tariff either by normal means or by “bullying” your network into changing your tariff via exploitation of your loyalty. If you only have a few months left on the contract, it may be worthwhile to let the contract run out and move to a more cost-effective network.
more
top^
Internet Access
Broadband is the ‘newer’ means of connecting to the internet which has replaced dial-up. With broadband the computer is always connected to the internet, even when the computer is turned off, so there is no need to re-connect each time you turn on the computer.
Broadband is much faster than dial up with a starting basic speed of 512kbps, although most providers now offer 8,000kbps (8MBs) and in some areas you can receive a speed of 24MBs.
OFCOM have stepped into help consumers by forcing providers to give their consumers an estimate of the actual attainable download speed they will receive rather than the maximum it could potentially be.
Switching Suppliers
If you wish to change suppliers all you need is your MAC code (Migration Authorisation Code) ensuring you can switch easily from one supplier to another without being cut off. Ask your current provider for this code, and they will give it to you within 5 working days.
Ensure you read the terms and conditions of your old contract and are not subject to any charges for switching providers in which case the benefit of switching is reduced.
more top^
Landline
Having a landline in a shared flat, can be a source of problems and arguments. Dividing the bill between flatmates can become petty and no one wants to own up to expensive phone calls. The solution can be as mundane as keeping a log book or highlighting the bill when it comes in.
The phone company will only allow one name to be put on the bill, leaving the possibility that one person might have to pay the whole bill if problems arise. Phone companies can make arrangements to assist shared households. E.g. only allowing incoming calls or incoming and local outgoing calls, but no mobile numbers. The best thing they can do for you is provide an itemised bill.
If you still want a landline there are many different packages available combining internet, international calls, free weekend and evening calls– so investigate the marketplace before you choose. Be aware that no one provider will be the cheapest for every call type.
If you are willing to use your mobile for all calls, then look at the mobile phone section to choose the cheapest deal but note that not having a landline can affect your credit rating now, and in later life, so you must fully consider this fact.
more top^
Explore Shopping
Food
Things to be Wary of in a Supermarket
Stopping Thieves Stealing your Food
Reducing the Amount of Food Wasted
Phone and Utilities
Splitting the Bill Up Between Flatmates
Saving Money on your Energy Bill
Getting a Better Deal from your Current Provider
What to look for when Choosing a Provider
Finding the Right Service Provider
About us
Do you want to find out more about us? ... more
Sign-Up
- It’s free
- It only takes 2 minutes
- Win prizes
- Weekly newsletter
- New advice