Switch energy tariff with an exit fee waiver in the UK
Find out when you can leave a fixed tariff without paying exit fees, and compare whole-of-market home energy deals with EnergyPlus.co.uk. Check eligibility, avoid common pitfalls, and switch with confidence.
- Understand UK exit fees, waivers and the 49-day switching window
- See when suppliers must waive fees (and when they don’t)
- Compare electricity, gas and dual fuel across the whole market
- Switch online in minutes — primary action is a quick form
Home energy only. We’ll use your details to provide switching help and quotes. Exit fees depend on your contract terms and supplier rules.
Check if you can switch without exit fees (and compare whole-of-market)
If you’re on a fixed tariff, your supplier may charge an exit fee (also called a termination fee) for leaving early. In many cases, you can still switch without paying anything — for example, when you’re in the 49-day window before your fixed deal ends, or if your supplier changes key terms.
Use the form to tell us the basics and we’ll help you compare home energy tariffs across the market. You’ll be able to see options that suit your usage, payment preference and risk appetite (fixed vs variable), and understand whether exit fees are likely to apply.
Tip: If you’re not sure when your tariff ends, check your latest bill or online account for the tariff end date and any early exit fee wording. You can also ask your supplier for a written breakdown.
What we’ll help you do
- Work out whether an exit fee waiver is likely based on your timing and circumstances
- Compare electricity-only, gas-only, or dual fuel home tariffs
- Understand standing charges, unit rates, and any incentives or conditions
- Switch with minimal disruption — your supply won’t be cut off for switching
Start your comparison
Fill in the form and we’ll get your home energy options.
Switching reassurance: you won’t lose supply when you switch. Your new supplier coordinates the changeover. If you have a smart meter, it should continue to work, though some features can vary by supplier.
What is an energy exit fee (and why do suppliers charge it)?
An exit fee is a charge some energy suppliers apply if you leave a fixed-term tariff before the agreed end date. It’s designed to cover the supplier’s costs of buying energy in advance and to discourage early switching.
Exit fees are most common on fixed tariffs and can apply to electricity, gas, or both (dual fuel). They are usually a set amount per fuel, but the exact cost depends on your contract.
Where to find exit fee info
- Your tariff information label / product terms
- Your online account (tariff details section)
- Your bill (often under “Your tariff” or “About your prices”)
- The end-of-fixed-term notice your supplier must send
When are exit fees waived in the UK?
Exit fee waivers depend on your tariff terms and the reason for switching. Below are common UK scenarios where you may be able to change tariff or supplier without paying an early termination charge.
1) You’re within 49 days of your fixed end date
Typically, you can switch from a fixed tariff without an exit fee in the final 49 days of the contract. Timing matters: it’s based on your contract end date, not when you start your switch.
2) Your supplier changes prices/terms and you object
If your supplier makes certain changes and you choose to leave because you don’t agree, you may be able to switch without paying. Your supplier should notify you and explain your options.
3) You’re moving home
Some tariffs waive exit fees when you move, especially if you can’t transfer the tariff. Others allow a transfer to the new address. Always check your terms and contact your supplier early.
4) You’re on a variable tariff
Most variable tariffs don’t have exit fees. You can usually switch at any time, though you should still check your tariff details and any outstanding balance.
5) The fee isn’t valid for your situation
Exit fees should be set out clearly in your contract. If a fee isn’t disclosed properly, or is applied incorrectly (for example, outside the fee period), challenge it and request a written explanation.
6) You’re switching due to supplier issues
If you’re dealing with billing problems, meter disputes, or service failures, you can still switch. Whether fees are waived depends on the tariff and circumstances — keep a paper trail and ask for confirmation.
Important: A waiver isn’t automatic in every case. Suppliers may apply different rules for different products. If you want certainty, ask your supplier to confirm (in writing) whether an exit fee will be charged if you switch on a specific date.
How to switch tariff if you’re aiming for an exit fee waiver
If you’re close to your contract end date (or you think you qualify for a waiver), a few simple checks can help you avoid surprises.
- Find your tariff end date and any exit fee wording on your bill/account. If unclear, request a written summary from your supplier.
- Confirm your switching window. If you’re within the final 49 days of a fixed deal, you can usually switch without paying an exit fee.
- Compare tariffs based on unit rates, standing charges, and how long you want price certainty (fixed vs variable).
- Check payment type and meter setup (credit, smart, prepayment). Not all tariffs fit all meter types.
- Switch and keep records. Save screenshots/emails showing the date you initiated the switch and the tariff you selected.
- Review your final bill. If an exit fee appears unexpectedly, raise it promptly with your supplier and ask for the calculation and tariff clause relied upon.
Exit fee waiver rules: quick reference
Use the table below as a practical guide. Your tariff terms always take priority, but these are the common patterns UK households see when switching.
| Scenario | Exit fee likely? | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed tariff, more than 49 days from end date | Yes (often) | Ask supplier to confirm the fee amount per fuel; compare whether savings outweigh the charge. |
| Fixed tariff, within 49 days of end date | No (usually) | Start comparing and initiate your switch in the 49-day window. |
| Variable tariff | No (usually) | Switch any time; still check for debt and ensure details match your meter type. |
| Supplier changes key terms and you reject the change | Possibly waived | Keep the notification; ask how to switch without penalty and confirm the deadline. |
| Moving home | Depends | Check if you can transfer the tariff; if not, ask about a move-related waiver. |
Worked examples (typical household situations)
Example A: Fixed tariff ends in 6 weeks
You’re inside the 49-day window. You compare now and initiate a switch. In most cases, the supplier shouldn’t charge an exit fee, even if the switch completes after the end date.
Example B: Fixed tariff ends in 4 months
An exit fee may apply. You can compare whether a cheaper tariff would save more than the exit fee over the remaining months, and decide if switching early is still worth it.
Common mistakes that trigger unexpected exit fees
Switching too early
Initiating a switch before the 49-day window (or outside any waiver period) can lead to a charge. Confirm your contract end date before applying.
Confusing “end date” with “notice date”
Some people use the date they received a letter/email rather than the tariff end date on the contract. Use the date shown in your account or bill.
Not checking per-fuel fees
Dual fuel customers may be charged two exit fees (gas + electricity). Ensure you know the fee per fuel before switching.
Mixing up tariff switch vs supplier switch
A tariff change with your existing supplier can still involve fixed-term conditions. Ask whether the new deal resets your contract and exit fee period.
Ignoring debt and final bill timing
A debt balance doesn’t always stop a switch, but it can complicate it. Take meter readings on the switch date and keep confirmation emails.
Assuming “no exit fee” means “always cheaper”
Even with a waiver, compare standing charges and unit rates carefully. The best tariff depends on your usage and how long you plan to stay put.
Exit fee waiver switching FAQs (UK)
Can I switch energy supplier with an exit fee?
Yes. Switching is allowed, but your current supplier may add an early termination charge if you’re leaving a fixed tariff outside any waiver period. Compare the fee against potential savings.
What is the 49-day rule?
In many cases, fixed tariff customers can switch in the last 49 days of their deal without paying an exit fee. Your supplier’s terms and the exact tariff end date are crucial.
Will my supply be interrupted if I switch?
No. Your physical supply continues; the change is administrative. You may be asked for meter readings around the switch date for accurate final billing.
Do exit fees apply to both gas and electricity?
They can. Many fixed dual fuel tariffs apply a separate exit fee per fuel. Always check whether the fee is “per account” or “per fuel”.
Can I avoid exit fees by switching to another tariff with the same supplier?
Sometimes, but not always. A new fixed deal may replace your current contract and could reset the exit fee period. Ask for confirmation in writing before agreeing.
What if I’m on prepayment?
Prepayment options can be more limited, but switching is still possible. If you owe money, rules can differ — it’s worth checking eligibility before you start.
Want help now? Go to Compare & switch and we’ll guide you through the next step based on your postcode and contact details.
Why use EnergyPlus.co.uk for switching?
This page is about avoiding unnecessary charges and making an informed switch. Here’s how we help UK households do that.
Whole-of-market comparison
We help you compare a wide range of home energy tariffs, so you can choose based on price, term length, and your preferences.
Exit fee awareness
We focus on the timing and checks that help reduce unexpected exit fees, especially around fixed tariff end dates.
Clear next steps
You’ll know what to look for in your terms, what questions to ask, and how to keep records so disputes are easier to resolve.
What UK households say
Real switching experiences vary by supplier and tariff, but these are typical outcomes people value when they compare properly and time their switch well.
“I waited until the last few weeks of my fixed deal and switched without any penalty. The process was smoother than I expected.”
“The reminders about checking per-fuel exit fees saved me from an extra charge on my dual fuel tariff.”
“I didn’t realise my tariff end date was different to the email date. Comparing at the right time made all the difference.”
Trust & transparency: Always review tariff terms, unit rates and standing charges before you switch. If anything is unclear, ask for clarification in writing.
Ready to switch without unnecessary fees?
Check your options with EnergyPlus.co.uk. If you’re in the 49-day window (or eligible for a waiver), you could move to a tariff that suits your household — without paying avoidable exit charges.
Takes a couple of minutes. Home energy only.
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