A mortgage adviser has shared the one task every first-time buyer should prioritise within hours of collecting their keys — and it could prevent unnecessary costs.
Why Meter Readings Matter
Aidan, known on TikTok as Mortgages With Aidan, has amassed over 14,000 followers by offering practical advice to first-time buyers. In a recent video, he stressed that the first 24 hours in a new home are critical. The very first action homeowners should take is to record gas, electric and water meter readings.
"Make sure you take photos of your meter readings and send them to the suppliers so you're not being charged for the previous owner's bills," he explained.
This tip is especially relevant as energy costs remain a major household concern. Ofgem's energy price cap for a typical UK household is still thousands of pounds annually, meaning billing errors can quickly become expensive.
Expert Backing
Consumer group Which? has long urged movers to take immediate readings when changing property ownership to avoid disputes with suppliers. Photographic evidence with timestamps can simplify resolving future billing issues, they note.
The homebuying process itself has grown costlier. Zoopla reports the average UK house price remains above £260,000, while mortgage rates and moving costs continue to squeeze buyers. Government data shows over one million residential property transactions occurred last year, highlighting the demand for such practical advice.
Other First-Day Tasks
Beyond meter readings, experts recommend redirecting post, changing locks and checking smoke alarms within the first few days. Financial advisers warn that delaying these simple checks can lead to avoidable expenses later.
While the excitement of unpacking often takes precedence, Aidan advises that spending a few minutes on meter readings can save not only money but also significant hassle down the line.
