Remember, it's up to you. You don't have to switch.
Compare prices
Compare what is on offer from all the companies in your area. OFGEM (external website) is the government body in charge of gas and electricity, and Consumer Focus (external website) is the independent watchdog for gas and electricity consumers. Consumer Focus has a price comparison (external website) on its website. You can complete this with your details for information about suitable suppliers.
You can also contact the different companies individually. When you compare prices, ask these questions:
- Will there be a standing charge? If so, how much?
- What payment methods are available (such as Direct Debit, quarterly instalments, cash and so on)?
- Are there different tariffs for the different payment methods?
- How often will you get a bill or statement?
Always compare companies on a like for like basis - for example, compare Direct Debit with Direct Debit.
Contracts
Check what type of contract you are being offered. There are two types:
Fixed Period
The company agrees to supply you with gas or electricity for a year at a fixed price. If you want to end the contract before the year is up, you will have to give 28 days notice. You will normally have to pay a termination fee.
Rolling
There is no time limit on the contract - the price of electricity can go up or down.
Before signing, make sure that you understand all the terms and conditions. You should be given a copy of the contract you have signed.
If you change your mind
If you sign a contract you should get a cooling-off period of 7 to 14 days. In this time you can cancel the contract and not lose any money.
However, if you agreed in writing that a salesperson could visit you at home, you have no cooling-off period. Avoid signing newspaper adverts which give permission not only for information to be sent but also for visits to your home.
Do a meter reading
If you decide to change supplier, remember to do a meter reading. Otherwise you may find that your final bill from your old supplier is estimated.
What won't change
- You will still get the same gas through the same pipes, and / or the same electricity through the same cables.
- All companies must provide special services to people with special needs such as pensioners and disabled people.
- If you owe the company money and can't pay your bill, they must accept repayment at a rate you can afford. They may also insist that you have a card or token meter installed to make sure that in future you pay for fuel as you go.
Safety
You will still have an emergency number you can ring to report problems.
Complaints
If you have a complaint about your new supplier, take it up with them in the first place.
If you are unhappy with their response contact Consumer Focus
Need more help? Live in Manchester? Send us an email
Information Provider:
Manchester Advice
Date Written:
September 2005
Date Reviewed:
5 November 2008
This information is for guidance only and is not an authoritative statement on the law. Please read our Terms and Conditions.
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