Texas Electricity 101
What Is a Switch Hold?
A switch hold is a restriction tied to your service address’s ESI ID (the meter record) that blocks switching to a new Retail Electric Provider (REP) or processing a move-in until certain conditions are met. It’s not attached to you personally.
The Short Version
- What it does: prevents a switch or move-in while the hold is active.
- Where it lives: on the address’s ESI ID, not your identity.
- Common triggers: past-due balance on a deferred payment plan (REP-initiated) or a utility’s meter-tampering flag (TDSP-initiated).
- Who lifts it: your current REP for payment-plan holds; the local utility (TDSP) for tampering holds.
Why a Switch Hold Happens
1) Deferred Payment Plan (DPP)
If you’re on a payment plan for a past-due bill, your REP can place a hold until the plan is current or finished.
2) Meter Tampering
Your TDSP can flag suspected tampering. That hold blocks both switches and new move-ins until fees, inspections, and any repairs are resolved.
How to Get a Switch Hold Removed
- Identify the type: ask your current REP whether it’s a payment-plan or tampering hold.
- Payment-plan hold: bring the plan current or pay the remaining balance; your REP submits removal.
- Tampering hold: work with your REP/TDSP to resolve fees and inspections; the TDSP lifts it.
- Confirm the lift: once removed, switches or move-ins should process normally—keep your confirmation/ticket.
Moving into a home with a hold? If you’re a brand-new tenant/owner, ask your chosen REP about an “ESIID release” (or similar). Provide proof of occupancy (lease, deed, or landlord affidavit) so the prior customer’s hold doesn’t block your move-in.
Checklist: Fastest Path to Power
Docs to Gather
- Photo ID
- Lease, deed, or utility verification letter
- Payment receipts or plan agreement (if applicable)
Calls to Make
- Your current REP (ask hold type, balance, removal steps)
- Your new REP (if moving in; ask about release process)
- TDSP (via REP) for any tampering inspections/fees
FAQ
Is a switch hold attached to me or the address? It’s attached to the address (ESI ID).
Can I switch providers while on a payment plan? Usually no—finish or settle the plan first.
How long does removal take? Varies by REP/TDSP and reason. Ask your REP for timelines.
Does a move-out get rejected if there’s a switch hold? Not necessarily; the block mainly affects switches and move-ins.
General information for Texas’s competitive electricity market. For account-specific help, contact your REP and TDSP.