What is a business energy contract rollover?

A business energy contract rollover happens when your fixed-term contract reaches the end of its term and is automatically renewed (rolled over) by the supplier—often onto a new fixed term or other contracted arrangement—if you don’t give notice within the required window. Rollovers can reduce your options and may lead to higher costs, so it’s best to review your renewal dates early and compare quotes.

What are deemed rates (out-of-contract rates) for business energy?

Deemed rates are the default prices a supplier can charge when your business uses energy without an agreed contract in place—commonly after a move-in, after a contract ends, or if you never signed a formal contract. Deemed tariffs are typically higher than negotiated fixed or flexible deals, so securing a new contract promptly can help reduce costs.

How can I avoid being moved onto deemed rates or an automatic rollover?

To avoid deemed rates or an unwanted rollover: (1) Find your contract end date and notice period, (2) start reviewing options 8–12 weeks before renewal, (3) give written notice within the supplier’s required window if you plan to switch, and (4) lock in a new business energy contract before your current one ends. You can compare options and switch at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/business-energy/.

When should I start looking for a new business energy contract?

A practical rule is to start 8–12 weeks before your contract end date. This gives time to compare tariffs, check your notice period, and agree a new deal so you don’t fall onto deemed rates or trigger an automatic rollover.

What is a notice period and why does it matter?

A notice period is the amount of time you must give your current supplier before the contract end date to prevent an automatic renewal. If you miss the notice window, your contract may roll over or you may have fewer switching options. Check your contract documents or supplier communications and diarise the key dates.

Can I switch business energy suppliers if I’m on deemed rates?

In many cases, yes. If you’re on deemed rates, you can usually agree a new contract and switch to a better tariff, subject to any site-specific requirements (like meter details and credit checks). Acting quickly can reduce the time you pay higher out-of-contract prices.

What information do I need to compare business energy quotes quickly?

To compare quotes efficiently, have: your business name and address, MPAN (electricity) and/or MPRN (gas), current supplier, contract end date, annual consumption (kWh) or recent bills, meter type, and preferred contract length. Having these ready helps you secure a new deal before rollover or deemed rates apply.

What’s the difference between rollover rates and deemed rates?

Rollover rates apply when your supplier renews you into a new contracted arrangement because you didn’t act in time; deemed rates apply when you’re using energy without a formal contract. Both can be more expensive than proactively agreed fixed or flexible contracts—so reviewing renewal dates and arranging a new contract early is key.

How do I stop my business energy contract from rolling over?

To stop a rollover, you typically need to give notice within your supplier’s required timeframe and confirm your plans (renew, switch, or move out). If you want to explore alternatives, start by comparing options at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/business-energy/ and ensure your new contract start date aligns with your current contract end date.

Who can help me find a better business energy deal before renewal?

Energy Plus can help you review your renewal timeline and compare business energy options to help you avoid deemed rates and unwanted rollovers. Visit https://www.energyplus.co.uk/business-energy/ to get started.

Avoid business energy rollover & deemed rates

If your business energy contract is ending (or has already rolled over), you could be paying expensive out-of-contract rates. Compare whole-of-market business electricity and gas tariffs with EnergyPlus.co.uk and switch to a better fixed deal before you’re hit by deemed or rollover pricing.

Whole-of-market comparison for UK business energy (electricity, gas or both)
Help avoiding rollover contracts, deemed rates and variable out-of-contract pricing
Fast quote request—one form, multiple supplier options
Support for single sites, multi-sites and SMEs

Get business quotes How rollover happens

No obligation. We’ll use your details to generate business energy options and contact you about your quote request.

Get whole-of-market quotes before your contract rolls over

Many UK businesses only discover rollover or deemed rates after their bill jumps. The good news: you can usually avoid expensive out-of-contract pricing by reviewing your renewal window early and locking in a new fixed tariff with a reputable supplier.

EnergyPlus.co.uk is a comparison service for business electricity and business gas. We help you understand your current contract position and compare available supplier options—so you can make a confident switch and keep your costs predictable.

In a hurry? If you think your contract has already ended, submit the form now. We’ll prioritise your request so you can move off costly deemed/variable pricing as quickly as possible.

Request business energy quotes

Business contract rollover and deemed rates: what they mean

When your fixed business energy contract ends, your supply doesn’t stop—but your unit rates and standing charges can change. Two common outcomes are rollover contracts and deemed rates. Both can be significantly higher than a competitively priced fixed tariff.

Rollover (auto-renewal)

A rollover contract may start if you reach the end of your agreement and don’t renew, switch, or give notice within your supplier’s renewal window. The supplier may automatically move you onto a new term (often 12 months) or a variable arrangement.

May lock you in again, depending on your contract terms
Rates can be higher than market-competitive fixed deals
Notice periods and fees can apply if you try to leave late

Deemed / out-of-contract rates

Deemed rates (or out-of-contract rates) can apply when your business occupies premises and takes energy without agreeing a contract—such as after a contract ends, after moving in, or if the supply was never formally contracted.

Often among the most expensive business energy rates
Useful as a temporary safety net, not a cost-effective plan
Switching to a fixed deal is typically the best route to control costs

Important: Rules and outcomes depend on your current contract and supplier. If you’re unsure whether you’re in a rollover window or already on deemed rates, we can help you review your position when you request quotes.

How to avoid rollover and deemed rates (practical checklist)

Avoiding expensive renewal outcomes is mainly about timing, clarity, and paperwork. Use the checklist below to keep control of your business electricity and gas contract.

Find your contract end date and notice period. Check your latest contract, renewal letter/email, or supplier portal. Note the end date, notice window, and any auto-renewal clause.
Start comparing early. Many businesses begin reviewing options months ahead so there’s time to choose a fixed term that fits your budget and risk appetite.
Gather key details. Postcode and contact details are a start; a recent bill helps (MPAN for electricity, MPRN for gas, current rates, consumption, meter type).
Check your meter setup. Half-hourly / AMR / smart meters, multi-rate meters, and multi-site portfolios can affect available pricing and lead times.
Confirm whether you’re already out of contract. If you’ve moved in or your agreement ended, act quickly—deemed rates can be costly.
Lock in a suitable fixed tariff. Compare whole-of-market options and confirm contract length, pass-through charges, billing frequency, and any admin fees.

Check my renewal options Avoid common pitfalls

Why businesses switch before rollover happens

Moving from deemed/variable pricing to a properly negotiated fixed deal can give you certainty and control. Here are the most common reasons UK businesses use a comparison service.

Protect cashflow

Avoid unpredictable out-of-contract unit rates and budget with a fixed term that suits your business planning cycle.

Reduce admin

One quote request can surface multiple supplier options—saving time versus calling suppliers individually.

Make terms clearer

Compare contract length, pricing structure, billing frequency and pass-through charges so there are fewer surprises.

Support for multi-sites

If you have more than one meter or location, you can still compare options that match your portfolio.

Better renewal timing

Avoid missing notice windows that can trigger rollover and limit your ability to negotiate competitive terms.

Stay compliant

Keep supplier documentation, agreed terms and account ownership tidy—especially important when moving premises or changing tenants.

Switching timeline: what to expect

Switching business energy is usually straightforward, but timescales vary based on your current supplier, meter type and whether you’re mid-contract. This overview helps you plan around your renewal date and avoid slipping onto deemed or rollover pricing.

Stage	What you do	Why it helps avoid rollover/deemed
Before renewal window	Check end date, notice period, and gather a recent bill.	You won’t miss key deadlines that could trigger auto-renewal.
Compare options	Request quotes and review contract terms, not just headline rates.	A suitable fixed deal can replace expensive out-of-contract pricing.
Agree a new contract	Confirm start date and ensure correct business details and site address.	Reduces delays that can leave you paying deemed rates for longer.
Switch completes	Provide meter readings when requested and check your first bill.	Ensures accurate closing/opening bills and fewer disputes.

Tip for movers: If you’re moving into new premises, ask who the current supplier is and agree a contract quickly. Otherwise, you may default to deemed rates until you formalise the supply.

Common mistakes that lead to rollover or deemed rates

Leaving renewal too late

If you miss your notice window, you may be auto-renewed or moved to variable pricing. Start the comparison process early so you can choose rather than react.

Assuming supply will “stay the same”

Your supply continues, but the price often doesn’t. Out-of-contract rates can be much higher than expected—especially on business electricity.

Not checking contract terms

Two deals with similar unit rates can differ on standing charge, pass-through charges, billing frequency, or admin fees.

Incorrect business/site details

Small mistakes (company name, address, meter details) can delay a switch—leaving you paying deemed rates for longer.

FAQs: avoiding business rollover and deemed rates

Can I switch if my contract has already rolled over?

Possibly, but it depends on the terms of the rollover agreement (length, fees, notice period). Submit your details and we’ll help you understand your options and the likely best next step.

What if I’m on deemed rates right now?

Deemed rates are typically intended as a temporary arrangement. You can often move to a fixed business tariff by agreeing a contract with a supplier and completing a switch (if appropriate).

Do I need a recent bill to get quotes?

Not always, but a recent bill can improve accuracy because it includes meter and supply identifiers and your current rates. If you don’t have one, start with the form and we’ll advise what’s needed.

Will my business have any downtime when switching?

No—your gas and electricity supply continues during a supplier switch. The change is administrative, and you’ll simply start being billed by the new supplier from the agreed start date.

Does EnergyPlus.co.uk cover my area?

We support UK businesses across England, Scotland and Wales, and can help with many Northern Ireland scenarios too depending on supplier availability and meter setup.

Is this for business energy only?

Yes—this page and form are for business energy contracts (electricity and gas). If you need domestic support, please use the relevant home energy pages on EnergyPlus.co.uk.

Trusted support when renewal time is tight

When your renewal window is closing, you need clear options—not guesswork. Here’s what businesses typically value when they compare through EnergyPlus.co.uk.

“We realised our contract was about to roll over. The quote request helped us compare options quickly and avoid getting stuck on expensive rates.”

Operations Manager, SME (UK)

“Clear explanation of deemed rates and what we needed to do after moving into a new unit. Switching was straightforward.”

Director, Retail business

“Helpful at renewal time—especially with multiple sites. We got a better idea of the market and suitable contract lengths.”

Finance Lead, Multi-site firm

What we compare: business electricity, business gas, and dual fuel options. We’ll focus on tariffs suited to your meter type, usage profile and renewal timeframe.

Don’t let your business energy contract roll onto higher rates

If your end date is approaching—or you suspect you’re already on deemed/out-of-contract pricing—request quotes now. We’ll help you compare whole-of-market supplier options and move to a tariff that fits your business.

Get business energy quotes Read about rollover & deemed rates

EnergyPlus.co.uk is a comparison service. Switching eligibility, pricing and timelines depend on your current contract terms, meter type and supplier processes.

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026