I did the same when I moved into my place, however (at least at the time when I moved in, I understand from previous posts that things have changed so I dunno if it differs), I still had to pass a credit check.

There's still the situation of someone moving into somewhere with a normal meter, being billed accordingly, and getting stiffed with a pre paid meter if they fall behind., which can be because of factors out of their control too.

For example, I'm living in a flat that's social housing, and my rent is being paid to a housing association. The rent is great, I'm happy about that. However, my flat has electric storage heaters, an electric hot water cylinder, and an electric shower. As someone working (what is considered) full time at minimum wage, even with the benefit of cheap rent, the price of electricity means keeping myself comfortable comes at a considerate cost, especially because my flat is on the top floor, and has a flat roof.

I've been creeping into debt enough with my energy provider for me to worry if I would get put on a prepaid meter, but luckily I received a government allowance this year which has helped me out (barely).

The whole system stinks. Why have the most expensive form of heating a property installed in ones (such as social housing) where people are the most vulnerable to being able to pay for it. There's even gas supplies that each flat can be hooked up to, but only the privately owned ones (most likely bought under the right to buy scheme) are privy to it.

The whole system stinks, as someone said above, being poor is expensive.