How to set up utilities and services for your shop

To get your shop ready for business, you must arrange contracts for essential utilities like electricity, water, and broadband. The first step is to find out who currently supplies the property, then use comparison sites to find the best business deals. Aim to have these services set up and active for the day you get your keys to avoid any delays in getting your shop operational.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Connected

Setting up utilities for a commercial property is slightly different from setting them up for a home. Business contracts are often for a fixed term of one to three years and don't usually have a cooling-off period, so it's important to make the right choice from the start.

1. Identify Current Suppliers: Ask the landlord, letting agent, or the previous tenant who supplies the electricity, gas, and water to the premises.
2. Gather Your Details: Before you start contacting providers, have your business name, address, company registration number (if applicable), and business bank details to hand.
3. Compare Business Tariffs: Use a reputable business utility comparison website to compare prices for electricity, gas, and broadband. These sites can save you a significant amount of time. For a more tailored quote, you can also contact suppliers directly.
4. Agree to a Contract: Once you've chosen your providers, you'll need to contact them to agree to a contract and provide a 'move-in' date.

Key Services to Arrange

• Electricity & Gas: This is the most competitive market. Look for a tariff that suits your shop's expected energy consumption. Remember to check the contract length and any exit fees.
• Water: In the UK, your water and sewerage supplier is determined by your geographical location, so you won't be able to shop around for different providers. You simply need to contact the local supplier to inform them you are the new business tenant and set up an account.
• Business Broadband & Phone: A reliable internet connection is non-negotiable for a modern retail shop. It will run your card machine (POS system), security cameras, and potentially any in-store customer Wi-Fi. Business broadband packages often offer faster speeds, better reliability, and more responsive customer support than residential ones.

Top Tip: Take Meter Readings Immediately
The moment you get the keys to your new shop, find the gas, electricity, and water meters. Take a clear photo of the readings on each one. Email these photos to your new suppliers on the same day. This creates a definitive record of your starting point and ensures you don't end up paying for the previous occupant's usage.