Business energy contract rollover: how to avoid deemed rates
If your business energy contract is ending, a rollover or deemed tariff can push costs up fast. Compare whole-of-market business gas and electricity deals with EnergyPlus and switch before your renewal window closes.
- Check your end date and renewal notice period (often 30–120 days)
- Lock in fixed or flexible rates before you slip onto deemed pricing
- We handle supplier contact and paperwork, from microbusiness to multi-site
Whole-of-market comparison. No-obligation quotes. If you’re already on a deemed/variable tariff, we can still help you switch.
Compare business energy before your contract rolls over
When your business electricity or gas contract ends, suppliers may move you onto a rollover contract or a deemed tariff. Both can be significantly more expensive than negotiated fixed-rate deals. The simplest way to protect your margins is to compare and switch during your renewal window.
EnergyPlus.co.uk is a whole-of-market comparison service for UK business energy. Tell us a few details and we’ll source suitable tariffs for your meter type, usage, and contract preferences.
Good to know
- Microbusinesses often have extra protections around notice and contract terms.
- If you’ve already slipped onto a deemed/variable tariff, switching may still be possible (and worthwhile).
- You don’t need to contact multiple suppliers—one enquiry can cover the market.
Get business energy quotes
Complete the form and we’ll compare whole-of-market options to help you avoid rollover and deemed rates.
Rollover contract vs deemed rates: what’s the difference?
Both outcomes typically happen when a business doesn’t agree a new energy contract in time. The key difference is how you end up paying those rates and what terms may apply.
Business energy rollover
- Often occurs when your fixed contract ends and you don’t secure a new deal.
- You may be moved onto a new contract automatically (terms vary by supplier).
- Prices can be higher than negotiated rates, and the contract length may limit flexibility.
Deemed rates (deemed contract)
- Applies when you’re taking supply but don’t have an agreed contract in place.
- Common scenarios include moving into new premises, a lapsed contract, or delayed change of tenancy.
- Frequently one of the most expensive ways to buy business energy.
Why this matters: If you’re on a rollover or deemed tariff, you’re paying the supplier’s default pricing rather than a competitive rate negotiated for your usage profile. That can mean higher unit rates, higher standing charges, or both.
How to avoid deemed rates on business energy
Avoiding deemed rates comes down to timing, paperwork, and knowing what to ask for. Use the checklist below to protect your business from automatic higher pricing.
- Find your contract end date and notice period. Look at your latest bill, renewal letter, or contract welcome pack. If you’re unsure, we can help you work it out.
- Start comparing early (ideally 8–12 weeks out). Many suppliers allow renewal pricing to be agreed in advance—this reduces last-minute pressure.
- Confirm your meter details. For electricity, have your MPAN to hand; for gas, your MPRN. Correct details prevent delays that can leave you on deemed supply.
- Give clear instructions if you’re moving premises. If you’re taking over a new site, contact the incumbent supplier promptly to avoid being billed on deemed terms for longer than necessary.
- Don’t assume “doing nothing” is safer. Doing nothing often triggers rollover or deemed pricing. A quick comparison can reveal savings and improve cash-flow predictability.
- Get confirmation in writing. Once you agree a new tariff, keep the contract summary and start date. This helps resolve disputes if billing continues at the wrong rate.
If your contract ends soon
Tell us your end date (even approximate). We’ll focus on suppliers and start dates that help you avoid a gap in supply.
If you’re already on deemed
You can often move to a contracted rate. We’ll check options and guide you through any supplier requirements to switch.
If you have multiple meters
We can compare for multi-site portfolios and align contract end dates where possible to simplify future renewals.
Why businesses use EnergyPlus for renewals
A renewal window can be busy—especially if you manage a site, a team, and suppliers. Our process is built to reduce admin and improve decision-making.
Whole-of-market comparison
See a wider view of business electricity and gas pricing, not just one supplier’s renewal offer.
Rollover & deemed avoidance
We’ll help you plan start dates and avoid contract gaps that can trigger deemed supply and higher default pricing.
Less hassle, clearer choices
We’ll translate contract terms into plain English—unit rates, standing charges, term length, and renewal conditions.
Suitable for microbusinesses
Whether you’re a café, salon, office or workshop, we can help you compare and switch with minimal disruption.
Support for complex sites
Half-hourly meters, high consumption, or multiple sites—tell us what you have and we’ll guide the next step.
Renewal notice periods: when should you act?
Business energy suppliers often have specific termination notice requirements. Miss the window and you may be rolled onto higher rates, or end up paying deemed prices while you sort things out. The exact rules vary, but these are common patterns.
| Situation | What can happen | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed contract ending | You may be moved to a rollover or out-of-contract rates | Start comparing early and secure a new contract start date |
| Late or missed notice | You could lose access to renewal options or be tied into less favourable terms | Check your contract terms; ask us to help confirm the deadline |
| Moving into new premises | You’ll usually be supplied on deemed rates by the incumbent supplier | Contact the supplier immediately and arrange a contract as soon as possible |
| Change of tenancy not confirmed | Billing delays, incorrect responsibility, or extended deemed billing | Provide move-in date, opening meter reads, and business details promptly |
Practical tip: If you can’t find your end date, grab your latest bill and look for “contract end”, “tariff end”, or your “terms”. Alternatively, submit the form above and note “end date unknown” in the message—our team can help you next.
What to check on a renewal quote (so you don’t get caught again)
A cheaper unit rate is important, but the contract terms matter too—especially if you’re trying to avoid unwanted rollovers and costly default pricing at the next renewal.
Pricing
- Unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day)
- Whether rates are fixed for the term, or variable
- Any pass-through elements (where applicable)
- Estimated annual cost based on your usage profile
Contract terms
- Contract length (e.g., 12, 24, 36 months)
- Termination notice period and how to serve notice
- What happens at end-of-term (rollover, out-of-contract, renewal options)
- Any fees or rules for early termination or meter changes
Common mistakes that lead to rollover and deemed pricing
Many businesses land on higher default rates for reasons that are easy to avoid. If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth taking action now.
Forgetting the notice window
Renewal letters can be missed. Put your end date in a calendar and aim to compare well before the deadline.
Assuming a rollover is “temporary”
Some rollovers have terms that can restrict switching. It’s better to agree a contract you’ve chosen.
Moving in without contacting the supplier
Deemed rates can start from day one. Provide tenancy details and opening reads promptly.
Not having meter information
Missing MPAN/MPRN or wrong meter details can delay switching and extend default billing.
Only comparing on price
A cheap rate with unfavourable renewal terms can cost more later. Terms matter.
Leaving it too late
If your contract ends imminently, prioritise speed: we can help identify realistic start dates.
Deemed rates explained (UK business energy)
A deemed contract exists so your business continues to receive energy when there isn’t a negotiated contract in place. It’s common when:
- You move into new commercial premises and take supply
- A previous tenant leaves and your business becomes responsible for the meter
- Your fixed contract ends and there’s a delay agreeing a new tariff
- There’s confusion over the legal entity responsible for the site
Deemed tariffs are typically priced higher because they are not competitively agreed and may include risk buffers for the supplier.
Signs you may be on deemed supply
- Your bill mentions “deemed”, “out of contract” or a default tariff
- Rates have increased unexpectedly without a new agreement
- You’ve recently moved premises and haven’t agreed a contract
- You can’t find a contract start date or terms in your paperwork
Get quotes to move away from deemed pricing and onto a more predictable tariff.
FAQs: business energy rollovers and deemed rates
Can I switch if I’m on a rollover contract?
Often yes, but it depends on the contract terms you’ve been rolled onto and any notice requirements. If you’re unsure, submit the form with your supplier name and we’ll advise the practical next step.
How long do deemed rates last?
Deemed supply continues until a new contract is agreed or the situation is corrected (for example, change of tenancy is processed). The sooner you arrange a contracted tariff, the sooner you can move away from default pricing.
What information do I need to compare business energy deals?
Useful details include:
- Business postcode
- Current supplier (if known)
- Contract end date (if known)
- MPAN (electricity) and/or MPRN (gas)
- Annual kWh usage or a recent bill
I’ve just moved into commercial premises—what should I do first?
Take opening meter readings on move-in day, confirm the legal entity responsible for the site, and contact the current supplier promptly. You’ll typically be on deemed rates initially, so arranging a contract quickly helps reduce unnecessary cost.
Does switching interrupt my energy supply?
No—your gas and electricity supply stays on. Switching changes who bills you and the tariff you pay.
Can you help with multi-site or landlord-managed meters?
Yes. If you manage multiple sites, sub-meters, or landlord/tenant responsibilities, include the details in the form message. We’ll advise on the cleanest route to contracting and avoiding deemed exposure.
Trust indicators & social proof
Businesses use EnergyPlus to simplify renewals, reduce admin, and avoid costly default tariffs.
“We were about to roll onto a much higher renewal. EnergyPlus helped us compare quickly and lock in a new fixed rate before the deadline.”
“We moved premises and didn’t realise we were on deemed rates. The guidance was clear and the switch was straightforward.”
“Multi-site renewals used to be a headache. Getting options in one place helped us align dates and budget more confidently.”
What you’ll get after you enquire
- Relevant quotes for your meter type and usage
- Guidance on start dates, notice, and avoiding default pricing
- Support with switching steps and supplier communication
Don’t get stuck on deemed or rollover rates
Compare whole-of-market business energy deals now. The earlier you act, the easier it is to secure a competitive tariff and avoid last-minute defaults.
Already on deemed supply? Still submit—include your move-in date or the issue in the message field.
Fast checklist to complete before renewing
- Find contract end date + notice period
- Grab a recent bill (MPAN/MPRN + usage)
- Decide fixed vs flexible preference
- Tell us if you’re moving premises or adding sites
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