Can I switch energy supplier mid-contract in the UK?
Yes, you often can switch while still in a fixed deal — but you may pay an exit fee. Compare whole-of-market tariffs with EnergyPlus and see whether switching now could still save you money.
- Check if you’re in your supplier’s exit-fee-free window (typically the last ~49 days)
- See estimated savings vs any early termination charges
- Switch without disruption: no engineer visit for most homes
- Compare fixed and variable deals across the market
Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes. Switching is subject to eligibility and supplier availability. We’ll show you the key checks to make before you move.
Compare tariffs and see if switching mid-contract is worth it
If you’re on a fixed energy tariff, your current supplier may charge an exit fee if you leave early. The key is to compare your likely savings against any charges so you can make a confident decision.
EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market electricity and gas deals for UK homes. Tell us a few details and we’ll focus on tariffs that fit how you use energy — including options that may reduce your bills even if you’re not at the end of your contract.
Tip: If you’re within roughly the last 49 days of a fixed deal, many suppliers won’t charge an exit fee. If you’re earlier than that, it can still be worth switching if the savings outweigh the fee.
What you’ll need (takes 2 minutes)
- Your postcode (to show available deals)
- An email and phone number (so we can send your comparison and help you switch)
- If you know it: your contract end date and any exit fee shown on your statement/app
Get your mid-contract switch check
Complete the form and we’ll help you compare deals and understand whether switching now could save you money after any fees.
No disruption: Your gas and electricity supply stays on during a switch. In most cases, your meters remain the same and there’s no visit needed.
Why people switch mid-contract
Prices have changed
A new tariff could offer a better unit rate/standing charge mix for your usage — even after an exit fee.
Your circumstances changed
Working from home, a new baby, EV charging, or a heat pump can change which tariff is best for you.
Service issues
Billing errors or poor customer service can be a reason to move — and you still keep your energy flowing.
You’re near the end date
Many fixed deals allow switching in the final ~49 days without an exit fee (check your terms).
You want a different type of tariff
Some households prefer fixed budget certainty; others prefer flexibility — a comparison shows the trade-offs.
You’re moving home
Moving doesn’t always mean you must stay put. You can often switch at the new property once you’re responsible for the bills.
What “mid-contract” means for UK energy
In the UK, “mid-contract” usually means you’re in a fixed-term tariff and you’re thinking about leaving before the end date. Fixed deals can come with an early termination (exit) fee. Variable tariffs typically don’t have exit fees, but always check your tariff terms.
Fixed tariff (most common for “contracts”)
- Unit rates are fixed for a set period (e.g., 12–24 months)
- May include an exit fee if you leave early
- Often an exit-fee-free window near the end
Variable tariff (including standard variable)
- Prices can change (often aligned to the price cap where applicable)
- Usually no exit fee, but confirm in your plan details
- More flexibility if you plan to switch again soon
Exit fees and the “49-day” switching window
Many UK suppliers allow you to switch without an exit fee in the final weeks of a fixed deal (commonly around 49 days). The exact window and rules depend on your tariff. If you’re outside the window, you can still switch — but you may pay an early termination fee.
Where to find your exit fee: check your online account/app, your latest statement, your tariff information label, or the confirmation email/letter from when you signed up. If it’s unclear, ask your supplier to confirm the fee and your contract end date.
Typical exit-fee scenarios
| Your situation | What usually happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| You’re in the last ~49 days of a fixed deal | Often no exit fee, but confirm your tariff terms | Compare now and set up the switch so your new tariff starts smoothly |
| You’re mid-way through a fixed deal | Exit fee likely applies (sometimes per fuel) | Estimate savings vs fee; switching can still pay off in some cases |
| You’re on a variable/standard variable tariff | Usually no exit fee | Compare fixed vs variable options based on your priorities (cost vs flexibility) |
| You’re in debt to your supplier | Switching may be restricted depending on the debt and how it’s being repaid | Speak to your supplier; ask about repayment plans and switching options |
Quick decision check (fee vs savings)
If you know your exit fee
Add up your expected savings over the next 6–12 months. If that figure is comfortably higher than the exit fee, switching may be worthwhile.
If you don’t know your exit fee
Start a comparison anyway, then check your supplier’s app/statement. You can decide whether to proceed once you’ve confirmed the cost to leave.
How to switch energy supplier mid-contract (step-by-step)
Switching is usually straightforward. The biggest “mid-contract” difference is confirming your end date and any exit fee before you commit.
- Find your tariff details (contract end date, exit fee, and whether you’re dual fuel).
- Compare whole-of-market tariffs based on your postcode and preferences (fixed vs variable, payment method, tariff type).
- Check the numbers: expected savings vs exit fee, plus any changes to standing charges.
- Apply for the new tariff. You’ll get confirmation and a proposed start date.
- Take meter readings when prompted (smart meters often submit automatically).
- Your new supplier manages the switch. Your supply stays on throughout.
Important: avoid starting multiple switches at once. If you apply to more than one supplier, it can cause delays or confusion.
Common mistakes when switching mid-contract (and how to avoid them)
Only comparing the unit rate
Standing charges matter, especially for low-usage homes. Compare the overall annual cost estimate rather than a single headline number.
Not checking exit fees per fuel
Some tariffs charge an exit fee for electricity and gas separately. Confirm the total fee if you’re switching dual fuel.
Switching before you can leave fee-free
If you’re close to your end date, waiting until the exit-fee-free window can be cheaper. Compare now and time your switch.
Assuming a switch will cut you off
Your energy keeps flowing during a switch. The process is administrative; most homes won’t need a meter change.
FAQs: switching energy supplier mid-contract
Can I switch energy supplier before my contract ends?
In most cases, yes. If you’re on a fixed tariff, your supplier may charge an exit fee if you leave early. If you’re on a variable tariff, there’s often no exit fee — but always check your tariff terms.
Will I pay an exit fee if I switch mid-contract?
Possibly. Many fixed deals include early termination charges. However, many suppliers waive exit fees within an exit-fee-free window near the end of the fixed term (often around 49 days). Your contract documents or online account should confirm the exact rule for your tariff.
Can I switch if I have a smart meter?
Yes. A smart meter doesn’t stop you switching. In some cases, smart functionality can vary between suppliers, but you can still move supplier and keep your energy supply.
Will switching interrupt my gas or electricity supply?
No. Switching supplier is an administrative process. Your supply stays on. You may be asked to provide meter readings for accurate final and opening bills.
Can I switch if I’m in debt to my current supplier?
It depends on the amount and how it’s being managed. Some debts can restrict switching, while in other situations you may be able to switch with a repayment plan. If debt is a concern, it’s worth speaking to your supplier and comparing options that fit your budget.
How long does a switch take?
Timing can vary by supplier and circumstances, but switching is usually completed within a few weeks. Your new supplier will confirm the expected start date after you apply.
Is it better to fix or go variable when switching mid-contract?
It depends on what you value most. Fixed deals can offer predictability; variable tariffs offer flexibility if you expect to switch again or want fewer restrictions. A whole-of-market comparison helps you weigh total cost, standing charges, and any exit fees.
If you want to jump back to the form, use Compare & check exit fees.
Trusted support while you compare
“Clear explanation of exit fees.”
“I thought I couldn’t leave my fixed deal. EnergyPlus helped me check my end date and I switched at the right time.”
UK homeowner
“No pressure—just options.”
“They walked me through fixed vs variable and what I’d pay with each. Really helpful.”
UK homeowner
“Switch was straightforward.”
“The comparison was quick and the switch happened smoothly. My supply never stopped.”
UK homeowner
What you can expect from EnergyPlus
- Whole-of-market comparison approach for home energy
- Help understanding contract end dates and exit fees
- Switching guidance that prioritises accuracy and clarity
Ready to check if switching mid-contract will save you money?
Compare tariffs across the market and weigh up likely savings against any exit fees — then choose whether to switch now or wait for your fee-free window.
- UK home energy comparison
- Fixed and variable options
- Guidance on exit fees and timing
Start here: it takes around 2 minutes.
Go to comparison formAlready checked your end date? Great — we’ll help you compare your next tariff.
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