Should I switch to an energy tariff with no exit fees?
Compare whole-of-market UK home energy tariffs and see whether a no-exit-fee deal suits your household. It can offer flexibility if prices fall or your circumstances change — but it isn’t always the cheapest option.
- Check fixed, variable and tracker tariffs from multiple UK suppliers
- Understand when exit fees matter (and when they don’t)
- Find a deal that fits your usage, not a one-size-fits-all headline rate
Free to use. Home energy only. Switching is subject to supplier acceptance and eligibility. Always check the tariff information label and terms before you apply.
Compare no-exit-fee tariffs (and the cheapest alternatives)
A tariff with no exit fees can help you move again quickly if prices drop, you’re planning a house move, or you simply want flexibility. But some no-exit-fee deals can carry a higher unit rate or standing charge than fixed deals with fees.
EnergyPlus.co.uk is a whole-of-market comparison service for UK home energy. Use the form to see options that match your postcode, meter type, and usage — then decide whether a flexible, fee-free tariff is the right trade-off.
Quick rule of thumb
If you’re likely to switch again within 3–6 months, no exit fees can protect you from paying to leave a fixed deal early. If you’re confident you’ll stay put for a year, a fixed tariff with exit fees may still work out cheaper overall.
What we’ll check for you
- Whether your meter is credit, prepayment or smart
- Electricity profile: single-rate or Economy 7 (where applicable)
- Tariff terms including exit fees, contract length and payment method
- Estimated annual cost based on your details (not just headline unit rates)
Get your whole-of-market comparison
Fill in your details to see no-exit-fee options and the closest cheaper alternatives.
What does “no exit fees” mean on an energy tariff?
An exit fee (also called an early termination fee) is a charge some suppliers apply if you leave a fixed-term energy contract before it ends. A tariff advertised as no exit fees means you can usually switch away without paying a penalty for ending the contract early.
Exit fees: what to look for
- How much the fee is (often £25–£100+ per fuel, depending on the deal)
- Per fuel: you may pay separately for electricity and gas on dual fuel
- When it applies: leaving early, changing payment method, or switching within a minimum term
- Cooling-off period: if you cancel in time, you typically won’t pay exit fees
No exit fees: what it doesn’t mean
- It doesn’t guarantee the lowest price — flexibility can cost more
- It doesn’t remove all charges (you still pay for energy used and standing charges)
- It doesn’t prevent prices changing on variable tariffs
- It doesn’t mean you can ignore notice periods or account finalisation
Important: terms vary by supplier and tariff. Always check the tariff information label and full terms, especially around contract length, price changes and any conditions that might trigger a fee.
When switching to a no-exit-fee tariff makes sense
You expect prices to change
If you’re watching the market and want the option to move quickly when a better deal appears, no exit fees can remove a key barrier to switching.
You might move home soon
Planning to move within the next year? A fee-free tariff can make it easier to switch at the new address without worrying about early termination charges.
You want flexibility over certainty
Some households prefer the ability to leave at short notice rather than committing to 12–24 months. This can be useful if your income or usage is changing.
You’re switching from a standard variable tariff
If you’re currently on a variable deal with no exit fees, moving to another fee-free tariff keeps your flexibility while you try to reduce your costs.
You want to “test” a supplier
If service matters to you (billing, app, customer support), fee-free contracts can reduce the risk of being locked in if things aren’t smooth.
You’re considering a tracker tariff
Trackers can move with the market. Many are designed to be flexible — but always check the full terms and how prices are calculated.
When a no-exit-fee tariff might not be your best move
You want long-term price certainty
Fixed tariffs often provide predictable pricing for the term. If you plan to stay put and value stability, a fixed deal may be better even if it includes exit fees.
- Useful if your budget is tight and you prefer steadier bills
- Can protect you from price rises during the fixed period
A fee-free deal is actually more expensive
Some no-exit-fee options trade flexibility for a higher unit rate or standing charge. If you’re unlikely to switch again soon, you could end up paying more overall.
- Compare annual cost estimates, not just p/kWh
- Check standing charges — especially for low usage homes
Don’t overpay for flexibility you won’t use
If you’re unlikely to leave early, paying a little more each month just to avoid a fee can be a false economy. EnergyPlus helps you see fee-free and fixed alternatives side-by-side so you can choose based on your real situation.
No-exit-fee tariffs: fixed vs variable vs tracker
“No exit fees” can appear across different tariff types. The key is understanding price risk (how often your rate can change) versus contract risk (what it costs to leave).
Tip: When comparing, focus on estimated annual cost and tariff terms. A “no exit fees” label is helpful, but it’s only one part of the decision.
Switching checklist: decide if no exit fees are worth it
Use this practical checklist before you choose a fee-free tariff. It helps you compare like-for-like and avoid surprises on your first bill.
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Check your current tariff end date and exit fees.
Find it on your latest bill, online account, or welcome email. Note whether the fee is per fuel. -
Estimate how likely you are to switch again soon.
If you think you’ll move home, change supplier again, or keep watching the market, fee-free can help. -
Compare total cost, not just the “no exit fee” label.
Look at unit rates, standing charges, payment method and any discounts. -
Confirm your meter type and rates.
Economy 7 and smart meters can affect which tariffs you’re eligible for and what you’ll pay. -
Read the key terms.
Check contract length, how/when prices can change, and whether there are any conditions that could apply charges. -
Plan your timing.
Switching typically completes without interruption to supply. Take a meter reading on switch day to help ensure accurate final and opening bills.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing fee-free and ignoring a higher standing charge
- Assuming all variable tariffs are the same (they’re not)
- Not checking if the price is direct debit only
- Forgetting to submit an opening/closing meter reading where required
Good reasons to choose fee-free
- You want the option to act fast if a better deal appears
- You expect a change in household size or usage
- You may relocate and want less hassle
- You prefer a shorter commitment even if the price is similar
FAQs: no exit fees and switching energy in the UK
Will I ever have to pay an exit fee?
You may pay one if you leave a fixed tariff early and your contract includes exit fees. If you choose a tariff specifically advertised as no exit fees, you typically won’t pay for leaving — but always check the terms.
Are no-exit-fee tariffs always variable?
No. Some suppliers offer fixed tariffs with no exit fees. Others are variable or tracker tariffs. The “no fee” part is about leaving, not how the price behaves.
Can I switch energy supplier if I’m in debt?
Sometimes, yes — it depends on your situation, the supplier and your meter type. If you have a prepayment meter or an arrangement to pay, options can differ. Use the comparison form and we’ll help you understand what’s available.
Do I lose supply when I switch?
No — switching is an administrative change. Your gas and electricity keep flowing. You may be asked for a meter reading to ensure your final and opening bills are accurate.
Is a no-exit-fee tariff better for prepayment meters?
Not automatically. The best choice depends on availability, rates and your usage. Some prepayment deals are flexible by default, while others can be more competitive but limited. Comparing is the safest way to see what fits.
What should I compare besides exit fees?
Focus on the estimated annual cost, standing charges, unit rates, contract length, payment method (e.g. direct debit), and any terms about price changes. Exit fees are only part of the total value.
Why households use EnergyPlus.co.uk
Whole-of-market comparisons
See a broad range of UK home energy options, including no-exit-fee tariffs and fixed deals, so you can compare flexibility vs price.
Clear, practical guidance
We explain what to check (exit fees, standing charges, contract terms) so you can choose confidently — not just chase a headline rate.
Designed for quick switching
A simple form and a focused comparison flow help you get to a shortlist quickly — especially useful if you want the freedom to switch again.
Customer comments
“The comparison was straightforward and helped me understand the difference between a fee-free tariff and a fixed deal.”
— Homeowner, Manchester
“I needed flexibility because we’re moving soon. Seeing no-exit-fee options next to cheaper fixed deals made the choice easy.”
— Tenant, Bristol
“Helpful checklist and clear breakdown of standing charge vs unit rate. Saved me time.”
— Household, Glasgow
Ready to see if a no-exit-fee tariff is right for you?
Compare whole-of-market UK home energy tariffs in minutes. We’ll show no-exit-fee options and the closest cheaper alternatives, so you can choose flexibility only if it genuinely pays off.
No disruption to supply when you switch. Always check tariff terms, prices and eligibility before applying.
What you’ll need
- Your postcode
- Rough idea of usage (we can estimate if you’re unsure)
- Whether you pay by direct debit or another method
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