What happens when you switch
- Choose a tariff and sign up with the new supplier (or through a comparison site).
- The new supplier contacts your old one. You don’t need to.
- You have a 14-day cooling-off period to change your mind.
- Give meter readings on the switch day (smart meters send them automatically).
- Your old supplier sends a final bill. Any credit should be refunded.
Most switches complete within a few working days of the cooling-off period, and your gas and electricity stay on throughout: the pipes and wires don’t change.
Your rights when switching
- No exit fees in the last 49 days of a fixed tariff.
- Prepayment with debt: you can usually switch with up to £500 of debt per fuel (£1,000 dual fuel), which moves to the new supplier.
- Credit refunds: your old supplier should refund credit after the final bill.
- Renters: if you pay the energy bills, you can usually switch, but check your tenancy agreement.
Sources: Citizens Advice: energy supply.
When switching might not be right
If your fixed deal is cheaper than anything available now, staying put may be best. If you owe your supplier money on a credit meter, you may need to clear the debt before you can leave. If you’re struggling, talk to your supplier about a payment plan and see our grants and support guide.
Last updated: 15 October 2026
