With deregulation in both the energy and telecoms markets it has now become possible to switch service providers. When choosing an energy or telecoms company its important to look at the service levels they provide and not solely concentrate on just price alone.

Consumer websites such as Which (http://www.which.co.uk) can give you an unbiased opinion as to the best and worse performing companies in each specific industry.

A recent independent MORI survey has revealed that over 100,000 people switch their gas or electricity each week. Over 90% of these customers report that the switching process was easy! Changing supplier is very easy and best of all its also free (provided youre not still in an initial contract).

For gas and electricity any new supplier will require your MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number) to transfer your electricity supply and your MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number) to transfer your gas supply. Both numbers can usually be found on your most recent bill.

If you do decide to transfer your supply we would suggest that you contact your existing supplier to inform them of your decision. It would also be a good idea to make sure your bills are up to date as this can affect the transfer process.

Your new supplier should send you details in the post confirming that they have initiated the transfer. Please bear in mind that this process can take up to six weeks. There will be no effect to your supply during this change-over period.

You should also receive notification from your new supplier of a specific date when the transfer takes place. Please remember to submit a final reading to your old supplier and opening reading to your new supplier on this day. This will help to ensure that no confusion arises further down the line.

If you do have any problems with either your old or new supplier then you can contact Ofgem the independent regulator of the gas and electricity industries on 0207 901 7000 or on their website at http://www.ofgem.gov.uk.