Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether she plans to take steps to change the rules governing gas and electricity standing charges so that bereaved families are not required to pay standing charges on unoccupied properties while probate and the legal processes required for the sale of the property are being completed.

The Government recognises the difficulties bereaved families can face and continues to work with Ofgem and suppliers to ensure all consumers are treated fairly.

Standing charges form part of energy suppliers’ tariff structures and are regulated by Ofgem, as the independent regulator. The Supplier Licence Conditions do not set out a specific exemption from standing charges for unoccupied properties while probate or related legal processes are completed, and any changes to the Conditions are a matter for Ofgem.

During probate, a representative or next of kin can contact the energy supplier to request that the account be frozen, so that energy bills can be settled as part of the estate.