Just 23% of consumers living in rented accommodation have ever switched their gas or electricity provider, research by the regulator found.

However, tenants could save an average of £190 on their annual energy bill by switching.

The guidance makes clear that if a tenant is directly responsible for paying the energy bill they have the right to choose their own energy supplier.

If a landlord or letting agent includes a default supplier in their tenancy agreement, they should make tenants aware of any tie-ins with specific suppliers.

The guidance says tenants responsible for paying the energy bill have the right to switch supplier at any time without incurring an exit fee.

Carolyn Uphill, chairman of the National Landlords Association, said:
“As energy prices rise, it’s essential that bill payers get the best value for money and when looking to rent a new property, tenants should consider the total cost of living in the property, including the bills, rather than the rent alone.

“We encourage tenants to shop around for the best deal and switch to a new, more competitively priced supplier. However, as a courtesy, we advise tenants to inform their landlord if they plan to change energy supplier and ask permission to add new wiring or equipment if this is required.”