Energy exit fees & switching tariffs in the UK
Worried about exit fees when switching energy? Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs with EnergyPlus.co.uk and see if you can switch without paying more than you save.
- Check whether your current tariff has an exit fee
- See fixed, variable and tracker options across the market
- Switch at the right time (including the fee-free window)
- UK support and a simple form to get started
Home energy only. Your current supplier may charge an exit fee on some fixed tariffs. We’ll help you weigh fees vs savings before you switch.
Compare tariffs and switch with exit fees in mind
Exit fees can look small on paper, but they matter when you’re comparing energy deals. The key question is simple: will the savings on a new tariff outweigh any exit fee on your current one?
EnergyPlus.co.uk is a whole-of-market home energy comparison service. Use the form to start your comparison and we’ll help you consider:
- Your current tariff type (fixed, variable or tracker)
- Any exit fee amount (often per fuel for dual fuel)
- How long is left on your fixed term
- Your expected usage (kWh) and current unit rates
- Switch timing, including the fee-free period before your end date
Tip: If you’re not sure whether you have an exit fee, check your latest bill, your online account, or the tariff information on your welcome pack. You can also ask your supplier directly.
Get a whole-of-market comparison
Complete the form and we’ll help you compare home energy tariffs with exit fees, prices and switching dates considered.
Why exit fees matter when switching energy
They can wipe out short-term savings
If you’re near the end of your fix or the price difference is small, an exit fee could cancel out the benefit of switching. We help you compare the likely savings against the fee.
They’re often per fuel
On dual fuel deals, the exit fee may apply to gas and electricity separately. Knowing whether it’s one fee or two is important before you switch both fuels.
Timing can make switching cheaper
There’s typically a period near the end of a fixed tariff where exit fees don’t apply. Switching in that window can help you avoid charges.
What is an energy exit fee?
An energy exit fee (sometimes called a termination fee) is a charge some suppliers apply if you leave a fixed-term energy tariff before the agreed end date. It’s designed to cover the supplier’s costs of setting up and hedging that fixed deal.
Good to know: Many standard variable tariffs have no exit fees, but fixed tariffs commonly do. Always check your tariff terms rather than assuming.
Where to find your exit fee
- Your online account (tariff details or “plan information”)
- Your bill or annual summary (look for “exit fee”, “termination fee” or “cancellation charge”)
- Your contract / welcome email when you started the tariff
- Supplier customer service (ask for the exact fee and the tariff end date)
Typical exit fee amounts
Exit fees vary by supplier and tariff. Some fixed deals charge a flat amount; others charge per fuel. The table below shows common patterns you may see (illustrative examples only):
| Tariff type | Exit fee likely? | How it may be charged | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed tariff | Often yes | Flat fee, commonly per fuel (gas + electricity) | End date, fee-free window, whether dual fuel is two fees |
| Standard variable tariff (SVT) | Usually no | No termination charge in many cases | Any minimum term, notice period, and final bill timings |
| Tracker tariff | Sometimes | May have a fee if there’s a minimum term | Minimum term, price movement, switching flexibility |
| Prepayment (PAYG) | Often no | Depends on whether it’s fixed and the meter type | Eligibility, meter exchange rules, debt or credit balance |
If you tell us your known exit fee (or leave it blank and share your tariff end date), we can help you assess whether switching now makes sense.
When can you switch without paying an exit fee?
If you’re on a fixed tariff, there is usually a period before the contract end date where you can switch without paying a termination fee. This is often called the fee-free switching window.
- Check your tariff end date in your account or paperwork
- Start the switch inside the fee-free window to avoid charges
- Remember: the switch takes time, so plan ahead
What if you’re moving home?
If you’re moving, you may have options to avoid or reduce costs, depending on your supplier and tariff. In many cases you can:
- Take your tariff with you (where supported)
- Switch at the new address after you’ve taken meter readings
- Time a change to minimise any early termination charges
Use the comparison form and note that you’re moving if relevant.
Important: Rules and timings can vary by tariff and supplier. Always confirm your exact fee-free window and any terms directly with your current supplier.
How to avoid (or reduce) exit fees when switching
Switch in the fee-free period
If you’re close to the end of a fixed deal, wait until you’re inside the fee-free window so your supplier doesn’t apply a termination charge.
Compare savings over a realistic timeframe
Don’t just look at unit rates. Consider standing charges and your expected usage, then weigh that against the one-off exit fee.
Avoid switching twice by mistake
Starting multiple switches can create confusion and delays. Choose the best option, then let the switch complete before making further changes.
Common pitfall: Some people switch early to a slightly cheaper deal and pay a fee, only to find a better tariff appears weeks later. We recommend comparing now, then planning your switch date to balance cost and flexibility.
How switching works (and where exit fees fit in)
-
Find your current details
Note your supplier, tariff name (if available), tariff end date, and whether there’s an exit fee. -
Compare whole-of-market options
Use the form to review tariffs based on your home and fuel needs. -
Decide your switch timing
If you’re in a fixed term, consider switching within the fee-free window to avoid charges. -
Submit meter readings when asked
This helps produce an accurate final bill and avoids estimated readings. -
Your final bill and balance
You’ll receive a final bill from your old supplier. Any credit should be refunded; any debt will need to be paid.
Quick checklist before you switch
- Am I on a fixed tariff with an end date?
- Is the exit fee per fuel (gas and electricity)?
- Do I have the latest meter readings?
- Do I want a fixed, variable or tracker deal?
- Are standing charges competitive for my region?
- Is there a cheaper deal if I wait for the fee-free window?
- Do I need to keep my direct debit stable?
- Have I checked any smart meter/prepay requirements?
Costs, savings and regional considerations
Exit fee vs savings: a practical way to think about it
If the new tariff saves you £X per month and your exit fee is £Y, a simple break-even estimate is:
Break-even months ˜ Exit fee (£Y) ÷ Monthly saving (£X)
If you’re likely to stay on the new tariff longer than the break-even point, switching can still be worthwhile. If not, it may be better to wait until the fee-free window.
Why prices vary by area
Energy standing charges and unit rates can differ by region because of local network costs and how electricity and gas distribution is structured across Great Britain.
- Your postcode helps identify the correct regional rates
- Direct debit vs pay-on-receipt can affect what you pay
- Some tariffs suit low-usage homes better; others suit higher usage
Exit fees switching tariff UK: FAQs
Do all energy tariffs have exit fees?
No. Exit fees are most common on fixed-term tariffs. Many variable tariffs don’t charge an exit fee, but you should always check your tariff terms.
Can I switch supplier if I have an exit fee?
Yes. You can usually switch at any time, but your current supplier may add an exit fee to your final bill if you leave a fixed deal early (unless you switch during the fee-free window).
Will I be charged two exit fees for dual fuel?
Possibly. Some tariffs apply an exit fee per fuel. That means you could see one fee for gas and another for electricity if you switch both.
What happens to my credit balance when I switch?
Your old supplier should issue a final bill using your closing meter reading. If you’re in credit, it’s typically refunded. If you owe money, you’ll need to pay the balance.
How long does an energy switch take?
Switching can take a number of days. Timings vary by supplier and circumstances, so if you’re trying to avoid exit fees, start comparing early and plan your switch date carefully.
What if I can’t find my tariff end date?
Check your online account, recent bills, or your welcome email. If it’s still unclear, contact your supplier and ask for your tariff name, end date, and any exit fee.
Ready to check your options? Go back to the comparison form.
What homeowners tell us
“I thought the exit fee meant I couldn’t switch. The comparison made it clear whether I’d actually save after the charge.”
UK homeowner, dual fuel
“Helpful to understand the fee-free window. I waited a little and switched without paying a penalty.”
UK homeowner, electricity
“Clear and practical. I finally understood my tariff end date and what I’d pay if I left early.”
UK homeowner, gas
Trust marker: We focus on home energy comparisons and clear switching support. Always review tariff terms and confirm any exit fee with your current supplier.
Compare energy tariffs without guessing the impact of exit fees
Use our whole-of-market comparison to see options for your home, then time your switch to avoid unnecessary charges.
- Whole-of-market home energy comparison
- Fixed, variable and tracker options
- Exit-fee-aware switching guidance
EnergyPlus.co.uk compares home energy only (not business). Exit fees depend on your current tariff terms.
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If you only have one detail, make it your postcode. You can add tariff details like exit fees later.
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