How to Change Your Enel Account Holder: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving house, a change in family circumstances, or a purchase of a new property – these are just a few of the reasons why you might need to change the account holder for your Enel electricity or gas supply. Navigating the complexities of utility transfers can feel daunting, but with the right information and a step-by-step approach, the process can be smooth and efficient. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of changing your Enel account holder, providing detailed instructions, required documentation, and useful tips to ensure a successful transition.

Understanding the Need for Account Holder Changes

Before diving into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand when a change of Enel account holder is necessary. Common scenarios include:

• Moving to a New Property: If you’re moving into a house or apartment where the utilities are already connected, you’ll need to transfer the account into your name.
• Moving Out of a Property: When you leave a property, you must close your existing Enel account and ensure the new occupant establishes their own.
• Change in Family Circumstances: Situations like marriage, divorce, or the death of an account holder necessitate a transfer of ownership.
• Property Sale or Purchase: Upon selling or buying a property, transferring the Enel account is an essential step in the overall transaction.
• Inheritance: When a property is inherited, the Enel account needs to be transferred to the new owner.
• Updating Personal Information: In cases where the account holder’s name or other details require correction or updating, a formal change of account holder may be needed, especially in complex cases.

Types of Enel Transfers: Voltura and Subentro

In the Italian utility context, there are two primary types of account transfers: Voltura and Subentro. Understanding the difference is vital to choosing the correct procedure:

• Voltura: This is the process of transferring an active Enel contract from the current account holder to a new one. The electricity or gas supply is not interrupted; it remains active. This is typical when someone is moving into a property where utilities are already connected.
• Subentro: This refers to activating a new Enel contract at a property where the supply has been previously disconnected (or the contract has been terminated). This is often the case for new constructions or when you are moving into a property where the previous occupant has closed their Enel contract.

Choosing the Right Option: If the electricity or gas is currently working at your new property, you need a Voltura. If the supply is disconnected (no lights, no gas), you need a Subentro.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Enel Account Holder (Voltura)

Let’s break down the process for transferring an active account (Voltura). This is generally the most common scenario:

Step 1: Gather Necessary Information and Documents

Before contacting Enel, ensure you have all the required information and documents ready. This will expedite the process and avoid delays. Here is a checklist:

• Personal Information of the New Account Holder:
  • Full Name (as it appears on your ID)
  • Date and Place of Birth
  • Tax Identification Number (Codice Fiscale)
  • Residential Address
  • Contact Information (Phone Number and Email Address)
  • A valid form of Identification (ID Card or Passport)
• Current Account Holder Information:
  • Full Name of the current account holder
  • Address of the Property with Enel Supply
  • Customer Code (Codice Cliente): Usually found on a previous Enel bill.
• Property Details:
  • Complete Address of the Property, including Floor and Apartment Number (if applicable)
  • Cadastral Data (Catasto) (if available)
  • Meter Reading (Optional but useful, if available)
• Supply Details:
  • POD Code (Point of Delivery): This is the unique identification number for the electricity meter. It’s usually a 14- or 15-character alphanumeric code. Look on a previous bill or on the meter itself.
  • PDR Code (Point of Redelivery): This is the equivalent unique code for a gas meter.
  • Type of Supply: Whether it’s only electricity, only gas, or both.
  • Current Tariff/Plan (if you have specific details)
• Payment Method Details:
  • Bank Account Details (IBAN) for direct debit payments (if you wish to use it)

Step 2: Contact Enel Customer Service

You have several options for initiating the Voltura process. Choose the one that suits you best:

• Online Portal:
  • Visit the Enel website (www.enel.it).
  • Navigate to the “Client Area” or “Servizi Online.”
  • You’ll typically need to create an account or log into your existing one.
  • Look for the “Voltura” or “Change of Contract Holder” section.
  • Follow the online instructions, uploading required documents when prompted.
• Enel Customer Service Telephone:
  • Call Enel’s dedicated customer service line for transfers. The number is typically available on the Enel website or through an online search.
  • Be prepared to provide all the information listed in Step 1 to the customer service representative.
  • The representative will guide you through the process and provide you with a reference number for your request.
• Enel Customer Service Center:
  • Locate your nearest Enel customer service center. You can find a list of centers on Enel’s website.
  • Visit the center in person and bring all the necessary documents.
  • An Enel representative will assist you in filling out the paperwork and completing the request.
• Enel App:
  • If you have the Enel app installed on your smartphone, you may be able to initiate the process through the app interface.
  • Navigate to the relevant section for contract changes, following prompts and uploading any needed documentation.

Important Note: Regardless of the method you choose, be clear about the type of transfer you need (Voltura) and be sure to ask for a reference number for your request. This number is essential for tracking progress and addressing any issues.

Step 3: Submit Required Documentation

During the application process, you’ll likely be required to submit copies of your identification and any other relevant documents. Ensure that the copies are clear and legible. You might be able to upload documents online, send them via email, or present them at the customer service center.

Step 4: Review the New Contract (if applicable)

Once your application has been processed, Enel may provide you with a new contract to review. Carefully examine all the terms and conditions, including pricing, payment options, and cancellation policies. If everything is in order, you may be required to sign and return the contract. The digital signing process has become more prevalent, so become familiar with the process using your electronic ID if you have one.

Step 5: Payment of Transfer Fee (if applicable)

Enel typically charges a transfer fee for a Voltura. The amount can vary and may depend on your contract and any current promotions. Ensure you understand the fee structure and be prepared to make the necessary payment. This payment is usually made through one of the various ways accepted by Enel, such as postal bills, bank transfers, or direct debit.

Step 6: Confirmation of Successful Transfer

After all steps are completed, Enel will confirm the successful transfer of the account holder. You should receive a confirmation letter or email. Verify that all the information is correct. It’s advisable to maintain these confirmation documents for your records.

Step 7: Review your first bill.

When you receive your first bill as the new account holder, carefully review it. Ensure your details are correct, that the supply information is correct and that you understand the payment details. If you have any questions or concerns, it’s advisable to contact Enel immediately.

Step-by-Step Guide to Activating a New Enel Contract (Subentro)

If the electricity or gas supply at your new property has been disconnected, you’ll need to initiate a Subentro:

Step 1: Gather Necessary Information and Documents

Similar to the Voltura process, gather the following information:

• Personal Information: Same details as listed for Voltura.
• Property Details: Same details as listed for Voltura.
• Supply Details: POD and/or PDR codes, type of supply (electricity, gas, or both)
• Cadastral Data (Catasto): This may be required for new connections or if there are changes in the existing system.
• Previous Account Details: Information related to the previous account if known.
• Payment Method Details: Bank account details for direct debit payments if you wish to use it.
• Proof of Ownership or Legal Right to Occupy the Property: This might include a copy of the purchase contract, rental agreement, or other relevant documentation demonstrating your legitimate right to access the property.

Step 2: Contact Enel Customer Service

You can contact Enel via the methods mentioned earlier – online portal, phone, customer service center, or app – to request a Subentro.

Step 3: Submit Required Documentation

Submit all the required documentation as prompted. The type and format may differ, so follow the specific instructions provided by Enel.

Step 4: Schedule Installation and/or Activation

For a Subentro, Enel will likely need to schedule a visit to activate the supply. This visit can involve a technician checking the meters, making the necessary adjustments, and ensuring safe functionality. Be sure to coordinate the date and time carefully, as you or someone representing you may need to be present at the property.

Step 5: Payment of Activation Fee

Enel will charge an activation fee for reconnecting the supply. The cost of this is dependent upon a number of factors including current promotions and any applicable costs for materials. Ensure you understand the cost and pay the required fees promptly.

Step 6: Confirmation and Activation

After all the necessary checks are completed and payments are processed, Enel will confirm the successful activation of your supply. You’ll receive a confirmation notice and the supply will begin as per the agreed timeline.

Step 7: Review Your First Bill

As with a Voltura, thoroughly review your first bill to ensure all your information and usage details are accurate.

Important Considerations and Tips

• Timeframe: The timeframe for a Voltura is generally shorter than for a Subentro. A Voltura is usually completed within a few days, while a Subentro may take several days or even a week or two depending on demand and scheduling.
• Meter Access: Ensure that the meter(s) are accessible to Enel’s technicians or personnel. If there are any obstacles or if the meters are not easily accessible, this may delay or complicate the process.
• Previous Unpaid Bills: It is highly important to understand that during a Voltura, any unpaid debt remains with the existing contract and cannot be transferred to the new account holder. The new account holder only inherits the contractual obligations and service agreement going forward. However, with a Subentro, you start with a clean slate and have no financial responsibility for debts incurred by previous account holders.
• Documentation: Be sure that you provide original or officially certified copies when requested. Errors and incomplete information can often lead to unnecessary delays.
• Communication: Keeping a written record of your communication with Enel can help should you have to raise any issues or make any queries.
• Professional Assistance: If you’re having difficulty with the process, or your case is particularly complex, consider seeking the assistance of a professional who is experienced with utility transfers.
• Reviewing Contracts: Always carefully review all contracts and service agreements before committing, making sure you understand your contractual obligations.
• Language Barriers: If you have a language barrier, seek help from a trusted person or an official translator.

Conclusion

Changing your Enel account holder, whether through Voltura or Subentro, doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process. By carefully following the steps outlined in this guide, preparing the required documentation, and communicating effectively with Enel, you can ensure a smooth and efficient transfer. Remember to always verify information, review contracts, and keep records of your communication. These measures will help you to navigate the process successfully and quickly transition to your new account.