Fixed energy deal ending soon? When switching makes sense in the UK
A practical UK guide to what happens when your fixed tariff ends, how to check exit fees, and how to compare fixed vs variable deals—based on your payment method, meter type and region.
- Know your end date and whether you’ll roll onto a supplier’s variable tariff
- Check exit fees and switching timelines (and when it’s safe to start)
- Compare like-for-like: unit rates, standing charges, and contract terms
Estimates only. Tariffs and eligibility vary by supplier, region, meter type and payment method. Switching timescales can vary; always check your contract and supplier communications.
Fast answer: should you switch before your fixed deal ends?
In most UK cases, if your fixed tariff is ending soon, it’s worth comparing now so you understand what you’ll move onto next (often your supplier’s variable tariff) and whether another deal is a better fit. The key is timing: many fixed deals have exit fees if you leave too early, while switching too late can mean paying higher variable rates for a period.
Start here
- Find your tariff end date (bill, app, or email from your supplier)
- Check if there’s an exit fee and whether it applies right now
- Note your payment method and meter type (standard, smart, prepayment, Economy 7)
Switching tends to suit you if…
- Your fix ends within the next 4–8 weeks
- Your current fix is noticeably above today’s comparable options
- You want price certainty (budgeting) and are happy with a fixed term
Hold off (or be cautious) if…
- An exit fee would outweigh expected benefits
- You’re moving home soon (tenancy end / sale progressing)
- You’re on prepayment and have limited tariff availability in your area
Important: “Best” depends on your region (electricity distribution area), meter setup (single-rate vs Economy 7), and payment method (Direct Debit vs prepayment). Always compare unit rates (p/kWh), standing charges (p/day), contract length, and exit fees.
Compare deals before your fixed tariff ends
Use your postcode and contact details to request a whole-of-market comparison (where available) and see suitable tariffs for your home. We’ll use your details to match deals by region, meter type, and payment method.
What you’ll need
- Postcode (to identify your electricity region)
- Whether you pay by Direct Debit, on receipt of bill, or prepayment
- Meter type: standard, smart, Economy 7, or prepayment
- Optional: annual usage in kWh (for more accurate estimates)
What we’ll show you
- Estimated costs based on stated assumptions
- Key terms: contract length, exit fees, and payment method rules
- Whether tariffs fit your meter (e.g., Economy 7 day/night rates)
If your fixed deal is ending very soon: check your supplier’s “end of fixed term” message. Many suppliers move you onto a variable tariff after the end date. Comparing now can help you decide whether to line up a new fixed tariff or stay variable for flexibility.
Get a quote (no obligation)
How switching works when your fixed deal ends (UK)
1) Check your contract and end date
Look for exit fees, fixed end date, and whether you’re on Economy 7 or prepayment.
2) Compare like-for-like tariffs
Focus on unit rates and standing charges for your region and payment method, plus term length and exit fees.
3) Apply and confirm
Your new supplier handles most of the process. You’ll receive confirmations and a switch date (timescales vary).
4) Take meter readings
Provide readings around the switch date to help produce accurate final and opening bills (smart meters may submit automatically).
If you’re in debt to your current supplier, you may still be able to switch depending on the amount and meter/payment type. For prepayment customers, debt rules can be different. If unsure, check with your supplier or Citizens Advice.
Fixed vs variable tariffs: a UK comparison you can actually use
When your fixed deal ends, suppliers commonly move you to a variable tariff (often their standard variable tariff). Whether you should lock in a new fix depends on price, flexibility, and your situation (moving home, budgeting needs, meter type).
| Feature | Fixed tariff | Variable tariff |
|---|---|---|
| Price certainty | Unit rates usually fixed for the term (standing charges can vary in some contracts—check terms) | Rates can change (often in line with supplier changes and market conditions) |
| Exit fees | Common on fixed deals; amount varies | Often none (but always confirm) |
| Best for | Budgeting, stability, households that prefer predictable rates | Flexibility, short-term needs (e.g., moving soon), waiting to fix later |
| Meter/payment constraints | Some deals are Direct Debit-only; some require smart meters | Usually broader availability, but still varies by supplier and region |
| What to check | Term length, exit fee, whether standing charge is fixed, and what happens at end of term | How often rates can change, and whether it’s the supplier’s standard variable tariff |
Decision checklist (quick but thorough)
- What’s my current unit rate and standing charge?
- Take these from your latest bill (electricity and gas separately). Compare on the same payment method.
- Will I pay an exit fee if I switch now?
- If yes, note the amount and whether it’s per fuel (gas + electricity can be charged separately).
- What am I likely to roll onto at the end date?
- Suppliers typically move you to a variable tariff—check the name and rates in your end-of-fix message.
- Do I need flexibility?
- If you might move, a variable or a shorter fix may reduce risk of exit fees.
Two realistic UK scenarios (with assumptions)
These examples are illustrative, not quotes. Costs depend on region, tariff rates, usage, and standing charges.
Scenario A: Dual fuel household, Direct Debit, fix ends in 3 weeks
- Assumed usage: 2,700 kWh electricity + 11,500 kWh gas per year
- Current fix: ends soon; exit fee £0 within last 49 days (example rule—your contract may differ)
- Option 1: switch to a 12-month fixed tariff estimated at £150/month (incl. VAT)
- Option 2: do nothing and roll to variable estimated at £165/month
- Estimated difference: ~£15/month (~£180/year) based on the assumptions above
Why it can be worth switching: no exit fee (in this example), and the variable option is estimated higher. Your exact outcome depends on the rates you can access in your region.
Scenario B: Electricity-only flat, Economy 7, prepayment
- Assumed usage: 3,200 kWh/year, with 45% night-rate usage
- Constraint: fewer Economy 7 prepayment tariffs available; rates can be higher than Direct Debit
- Option 1: stay on variable while you confirm the night/day split and meter setup
- Option 2: switch to an available prepay tariff estimated at £120/month vs current £125/month
- Estimated difference: ~£5/month (~£60/year), but only if your night usage matches the tariff’s night-rate window
Why caution matters: Economy 7 savings depend on when you use electricity and your exact meter times. Switching to a single-rate tariff can increase bills if you genuinely benefit from night rates.
Tip: If you don’t know your annual usage, use your latest statements to estimate. Suppliers show usage in kWh; “£ per month” estimates can be misleading unless the assumptions match your household.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)
1) Exit fees and “too early” switching
Some fixed tariffs charge exit fees if you leave before the contract end date. Check whether fees apply per fuel, and whether there’s a fee-free window near the end.
Always confirm exit fee rules on your tariff information label or contract summary. Don’t rely on generic timelines.
2) Payment method restrictions
Many competitive tariffs are Direct Debit-only. If you pay on receipt of bill or use prepayment, your available options may be different and pricing may vary.
- Direct Debit: usually widest choice
- Cash/cheque/on receipt of bill: fewer tariffs
- Prepayment: availability depends on supplier and meter type
3) Meter type mismatches
Economy 7 (two-rate) tariffs aren’t interchangeable with single-rate without checking how you use energy. Smart meters can help, but not all tariffs require them.
- Economy 7: check day/night split and times
- Smart meter: some tariffs are “smart only”
- Prepayment meters: tariff eligibility can differ
Standing charge surprises
A tariff can look cheap on unit rate but cost more overall if the standing charge is higher. Compare both fuels separately and use your own usage if you can.
Moving home and tenancy changes
If you’re likely to move during the term, check whether the supplier allows you to move the tariff to a new address. If not, an exit fee may apply.
If you’re struggling to pay, switching is only one option. You can also ask your supplier about payment plans, emergency credit (prepayment), or other support. Citizens Advice has step-by-step help for UK households.
FAQs: fixed energy deals ending in the UK
What happens when my fixed energy tariff ends?
You’ll usually be moved onto a variable tariff set by your supplier (often their standard variable tariff). Your supplier should tell you in advance and show the rates you’ll pay.
How soon before the end date can I switch?
You can compare at any time, but check exit fees. Some fixed deals waive exit fees within a set window near the end date, while others don’t. Always confirm in your contract documents.
Will switching affect my electricity or gas supply?
No—your energy continues as normal. Switching changes who bills you. You may be asked for meter readings around the switch date to keep bills accurate.
Can I switch if I have a smart meter?
Yes. Most suppliers support smart meters, but the level of smart functionality can vary by supplier/meter. Some tariffs are “smart only”, but many are not.
I’m on Economy 7—what should I watch for?
Check whether the tariff is two-rate (day/night) or single-rate, and confirm the night-rate times for your meter. Your day/night usage split has a big impact on cost.
Can prepayment customers switch when a fixed deal ends?
Often yes, but tariff availability may be more limited and depends on meter type and supplier. If you have debt on a prepayment meter, additional rules may apply.
Do I need my MPAN or MPRN to switch?
Not always to start a comparison, but it can help if there’s a meter/address mismatch. Your MPAN is for electricity; your MPRN is for gas—both are usually on your bill.
What if I’m moving home soon?
Consider flexibility. Some fixed tariffs can move with you, others can’t. If your move date is uncertain, a variable tariff or shorter fix may reduce the risk of exit fees.
If you want help interpreting your bill (unit rates, standing charges, Economy 7 registers), submit the quote form above and include your best estimate of meter type and payment method.
Trust, methodology and sources
Editorial transparency
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- March 2026
How we assess “switch now” vs “wait”
We focus on what changes for a UK household when a fixed tariff ends and how to compare the next best alternative. Our guidance prioritises bill impact and risk, not hype.
- Tariff cost components: unit rates (p/kWh) + standing charges (p/day), considered separately for gas and electricity
- Eligibility filters: region, meter type (standard/smart/prepayment/Economy 7), and payment method (e.g., Direct Debit-only deals)
- Contract risk: exit fees, term length, and end-of-fix rollover outcome
- User fit: moving home, budgeting needs, usage certainty (kWh accuracy)
Limitations: We can’t guarantee availability or acceptance of any tariff, and we can’t quote exact savings without your usage, region and meter/payment details. Supplier prices and terms can change; always read the tariff information and contract summary before you switch.
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