Gas Bill Suddenly Doubled (UK): Common Causes

Main reasons

• Estimated reads followed by catch‑up
• Tariff/rate change mid‑period
• Cold weather or heating schedule change
• Wrong billing dates or days billed
• Conversion (volume to kWh) questions

What to check in 2 minutes

• Check if reads are actual vs estimated
• Verify billing dates and number of days
• Confirm unit rate and whether it changed
• Compare usage (kWh) to previous periods

Quick calculation

Use the kWh → cost calculator to sanity‑check usage cost, then add standing charge.

If something looks wrong

1. Ask for reading history and conversion details if needed
2. Request breakdown of rates used and dates
3. Submit an up‑to‑date reading with photo
4. Use dispute steps if numbers still don’t make sense

Related pages

• Unit rate explained
• Dispute steps
• Standing charge

Updated 2026-02-18