What does ‘no exit fee’ mean on an energy tariff?

A no-exit-fee energy tariff means you can leave the tariff (or switch supplier) without paying a termination charge. This gives you flexibility to switch if prices drop or your circumstances change. Always confirm in the tariff terms whether any other charges apply.

Can I switch energy suppliers with no exit fee if I’m in a fixed deal?

If your current fixed tariff has an exit fee, you may be charged for leaving early. If you’re on a fixed tariff with no exit fee, you can switch without a termination charge. Check your latest bill, online account, or tariff information to confirm your exit fee before starting the switch.

When can I switch without paying an exit fee?

In the UK, many suppliers won’t charge an exit fee if you switch in the last 49 days of your fixed-term contract (your ‘switching window’). Outside of that window, an exit fee may apply unless your tariff is specifically no-exit-fee.

How do I find out if my current tariff has an exit fee?

Check your tariff name and terms in your online account, on your latest bill, or in the contract email/letter you received when you joined. You can also ask your supplier directly to confirm whether an exit fee applies and how much it is.

Will switching to a no-exit-fee tariff affect my energy supply?

No. Your gas and electricity supply stays on throughout the switch because the same national networks deliver energy to your home. The change is administrative: billing and customer service move to your new supplier.

How long does it take to switch to a no-exit-fee energy tariff?

Most UK switches complete in around 5 working days, though timings can vary. You’ll usually receive a switch date from your new supplier, and you may be asked for meter readings around the time of the changeover to ensure accurate final billing.

What information do I need to switch energy tariffs?

Typically you’ll need your address and contact details, payment details (e.g., Direct Debit), and meter information. If available, having your MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas) can help, plus a recent bill to estimate usage and compare costs accurately.

Can I switch to a no-exit-fee tariff if I have a smart meter?

Yes. Smart meters generally don’t prevent switching. In some cases, smart functionality may change temporarily depending on the supplier and meter type, but your energy supply continues as normal.

Is a no-exit-fee tariff always the best choice?

Not always. No-exit-fee tariffs offer flexibility, but the unit rates and standing charge might be higher than a fixed deal with an exit fee. Compare the full costs (unit rates, standing charges, discounts, and any fees) based on your usage before deciding.

What should I check before switching to a no-exit-fee tariff?

Check the unit rates and standing charges, any price guarantees and how long they last, payment method requirements, whether the tariff is fixed or variable, and any conditions (for example, online-only management). Also confirm your current contract end date and whether an exit fee applies today.

Do I need to contact my current supplier to switch?

Usually no. Your new supplier manages the switch for you. You should only contact your current supplier if you need to confirm your tariff end date, exit fees, or resolve billing issues.

What happens to my final bill when I switch?

Your old supplier will issue a final bill using the closing meter reading (often the reading you submit or one obtained automatically). If you’re in credit, you should get a refund. If you owe money, you’ll need to pay the outstanding balance.

How can I switch to Energy Plus on a tariff with no exit fee?

You can start by choosing a suitable tariff and completing the online sign-up process with your details. Energy Plus will handle the switch and confirm your supply start date. For the latest tariffs and availability, visit https://www.energyplus.co.uk/.

How to switch to an energy tariff with no exit fee (UK)

Compare whole-of-market home energy deals and switch to a tariff with no exit fees, so you can change again if prices drop—without penalties.

See no-exit-fee tariffs from a wide range of UK suppliers
Keep your supply uninterrupted—your energy stays on during the switch
Check unit rates, standing charges and features side by side
Get help if you’re on a fixed, variable, prepayment or Economy 7 tariff

Compare no-exit-fee tariffs See how switching works

Whole-of-market comparison for home energy. Switching is subject to supplier eligibility and credit checks where applicable. Exit fees may apply if you leave a fixed tariff early—we’ll help you check before you switch.

Compare UK energy tariffs with no exit fee

A no-exit-fee tariff is designed to give you flexibility. If a better deal appears later, you can usually move again without paying a penalty to leave that tariff. EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market home energy options, so you can find the right balance between price, flexibility and service.

Use the form to get started. We’ll use your details to show relevant tariffs for your home, including options labelled as no exit fee where available.

Good to know: Some fixed tariffs come with an early exit fee, while many standard variable tariffs don’t. Always check the tariff terms and any cooling-off rules before confirming.

What does “no exit fee” actually mean?

In the UK, an exit fee (also called an early termination charge) is a cost you may pay if you leave a fixed energy tariff before the end of the fixed term. A tariff with no exit fee typically means you won’t be charged a penalty by the new tariff for leaving early. However, you might still have an exit fee on your current tariff if it’s fixed—so it’s important to check both sides when switching.

No-exit-fee tariff: usually flexible to leave without penalty (from that tariff).
Your current tariff: may still charge a fee if you’re switching away mid-contract.
Cooling-off period: you generally have time to change your mind after agreeing to switch (terms vary by supplier and channel).

Before you switch, have these handy

Your current supplier and tariff name (if you know it)
Rough usage in kWh (or your latest bill)
Payment method (Direct Debit, prepayment, or cash/card)
Meter type (smart meter, credit meter, Economy 7, prepay)

Why choose a no-exit-fee energy tariff?

No-exit-fee tariffs aren’t automatically cheaper—but they can be the right choice if you value flexibility, expect household changes, or want the option to move quickly when new deals appear.

Flexibility if prices change

If rates improve, you can switch again without paying an exit fee to leave your new tariff, making it easier to keep your costs competitive.

Ideal for uncertain plans

Moving home, changing occupancy, or altering how you heat your home can affect usage. A flexible tariff can reduce the risk of paying to leave early.

Lower switching risk

If customer service or billing isn’t right for you, a no-exit-fee tariff can make it easier to change supplier without penalty (check your terms).

Useful for temporary deals

Some households use a flexible tariff while waiting for better fixed deals to return, rather than locking in long contracts.

Can suit smart meter users

If you’re exploring time-of-use tariffs (where available), flexibility can help while you learn how your usage shifts across the day.

Clearer comparisons

When you compare, you can weigh up unit rates, standing charges and contract terms without needing to budget for a potential exit fee.

How to switch to a no-exit-fee tariff in the UK (step by step)

Switching home energy supplier is designed to be straightforward. The key is to confirm whether your current tariff has an exit fee and to compare like-for-like prices (unit rate + standing charge) for your payment method and meter type.

Check your current contract. Look at your latest bill, online account, or tariff information for any early exit fee and contract end date.
Gather your details. Postcode, address, current supplier, and an estimate of usage in kWh for electricity/gas (or annual cost).
Compare whole-of-market tariffs. Filter or shortlist options that state no exit fee where available, then compare price and features.
Review the tariff terms. Confirm whether the new tariff has an exit fee (ideally £0) and check payment method, discounts, and smart meter requirements.
Start the switch. Your new supplier arranges the transfer. Your supply should stay on throughout.
Provide meter readings (if requested). This helps ensure your final bill with the old supplier is accurate. Smart meters may send readings automatically.
Check the first bill. Make sure your opening reading and tariff rates match what you agreed.

Tip: If your current fixed tariff charges an exit fee, compare that cost against the potential savings of switching now. In some cases it can still be worth it; in others, waiting until closer to your end date may be better.

What to compare (so you don’t miss hidden costs)

What to check	Why it matters	Where to find it
Exit fee (£0 preferred)	A no-exit-fee tariff is easier to leave if you later find a better deal.	Tariff summary / key terms
Unit rate (p/kWh)	This drives most of your bill. Make sure it matches your meter type and region.	Tariff details
Standing charge (p/day)	A lower unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge, especially for low usage homes.	Tariff details
Payment method	Prices can differ between Direct Debit, pay on receipt of bill, or prepayment.	Tariff eligibility
Contract length	Shorter terms can offer flexibility; longer terms may provide rate certainty.	Key facts / contract info
Meter requirements	Some tariffs require a smart meter or are tailored to Economy 7/time-of-use.	Tariff description

Costs, exit fees and switching timelines (UK)

Will switching cost me anything?

Switching supplier itself typically doesn’t come with a separate switching charge. The main potential cost is an exit fee on your current fixed tariff if you leave before it ends.

If you’re on a standard variable tariff, there’s often no exit fee to leave (check your terms).
If you’re on a fixed tariff, an early exit fee may apply (per fuel).
A no-exit-fee new tariff means you can leave that new deal without paying an exit fee to the new supplier (subject to terms).

How long does an energy switch take?

In many cases, switching completes within a few working days, but timelines can vary depending on supplier processes and whether there are issues to resolve (for example, address details or meter information).

Your energy supply should stay on throughout.
Your new supplier coordinates the transfer.
Provide meter readings when asked to avoid estimated bills.

If you’re worried about exit fees: check your tariff end date. Some suppliers may allow penalty-free switching within a specific window near the end of a fixed term, but this depends on your contract terms.

Eligibility: can I switch to a no-exit-fee tariff?

Most households in Great Britain can switch energy supplier, but eligibility and available tariffs depend on your meter type, payment method and credit position. Here are the most common situations:

If you’re on a fixed tariff

You can usually switch, but your current supplier may charge an exit fee if you’re leaving early. We’ll help you compare against potential savings.

If you’re on prepayment

Switching is often possible, but tariff choice can be narrower. If you have debt on the meter, that may affect your options.

If you’re on Economy 7

Compare day and night rates carefully. A no-exit-fee option can be useful if your usage pattern changes seasonally.

If you rent

If you pay the energy bills, you can usually choose the supplier. If bills are included in rent or managed by a landlord, your ability to switch may be limited. Check your tenancy agreement.

If you have a smart meter

You can still switch. Some suppliers offer smart tariffs; others treat you like any other customer. Always confirm tariff requirements before you proceed.

Common mistakes when switching to a no-exit-fee tariff

1) Only looking at the exit fee

A tariff can be “no exit fee” but still expensive. Compare unit rate and standing charge (and whether they apply to your region and payment method).

2) Forgetting your current exit fee

A new tariff may be flexible, but your current supplier could charge for leaving early if you’re mid fixed-term.

3) Not matching your meter type

Economy 7 and prepayment tariffs work differently. Choose a deal built for your meter, otherwise the “best” price on paper may not suit your household.

4) Using the wrong usage estimate

If your kWh estimate is too low or too high, comparisons can mislead. If possible, use your annual consumption from a bill (gas and electricity separately).

FAQs: no-exit-fee energy tariffs in the UK

Are variable tariffs the same as no exit fee?

Many standard variable tariffs don’t charge an exit fee, but they can change price. A “no exit fee” tariff simply means you can leave without an early termination charge (check the exact terms of the tariff).

Can I switch if I owe money to my supplier?

You may still be able to switch, but debt can affect eligibility—especially on prepayment meters. If you’re unsure, use the form above and we’ll explain the options available for your situation.

Do I need to contact my old supplier to cancel?

Usually no. When you switch, the new supplier typically manages the process and your old supplier closes the account once the transfer completes. Always keep paying your existing bills until your final bill is settled.

Will my energy be cut off when I switch?

No—switching supplier should not interrupt your gas or electricity supply. It’s an administrative change rather than physical work at your home (unless a meter change is arranged separately).

What if I’m in a fixed deal but want to avoid exit fees?

Start by checking your contract end date and any exit fee amount. If you’re close to the end of your fixed term, waiting may avoid the fee. If the saving from switching now outweighs the exit fee, it could still be worthwhile.

Can I switch gas only or electricity only?

Often yes. Dual fuel can be convenient, but separate suppliers can sometimes be better value. Compare both approaches to see what works best for your home.

If you can’t find the information you need, go back to Compare & switch and send your details—we’ll help you understand your options.

Trust & reassurance

Switching energy is a big decision. Here’s what customers value when using a comparison-led switching journey:

“Clear on prices and contract terms.”

It was easy to check standing charges and see which deals had no exit fee.

Homeowner, North West

“Helpful when I wasn’t sure about my meter.”

I have Economy 7 and got guidance on what to compare before switching.

Tenant, Yorkshire

“No pressure—just the options.”

I wanted a flexible tariff and found one that suited my budget.

Family household, South East

What you can expect from the switching process

Your supply stays on while the admin transfer takes place.
You’ll receive confirmation of your tariff rates and start date from the supplier.
You may be asked for an opening meter reading to finalise the switch accurately.

Ready to switch to a no-exit-fee energy tariff?

Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs and check which options are available in your area—including deals with no exit fee where offered.

Start my comparison Read FAQs first

Switching is subject to supplier terms. Always confirm whether your current tariff has exit fees before you change supplier.

Quick checklist

Check current exit fee and end date
Compare unit rate + standing charge
Match tariff to meter type and payment method
Keep a note of your opening meter reading

Back to Guides & FAQs

Updated on 14 Feb 2026