Sneeaky trick for fixed contracts

loki_the_glt

Something to watch out for when switching at the end of a fixed-term contract.

I'm with E.On for gas and electricity till the end of March. When I told them in February I would be moving at that time they tried to put me on their standard rate with IMMEDIATE effect.

I pointed out that I had a fixed term contract, and would stay on that until it ended; only after that would they be able to charge me at their standard rate.

Their adviser was not convinced so I suggested he check the legal position with someone further up the foodchain. This he did, and informed me that I was correct but - how many people have accepted the statement from the adviser that they would have to move immediately to the standard, and presumably dearer, tariff?

Former_E.ON_Company_Representative:_Malc

Hi loki_the_glt

You're absolutely spot on. There's no requirement to come off a contract before the end date because you want to change supplier and I'm sorry you were initially told differently.

You can remain on your current contract right up to the end. After this, you will go on to standard prices unless you tell us differently.

Provided the switch completes after your current contract ends, there will be no cancellation fee. Also, we don't usually give discount on final bills when changing supplier. However, this will not affect your current arrangement.

Provided you've completed the contract, you will receive all the discount applicable to the tariff even if part of this falls within the final bill. The only discount you will lose is that for the period between the end of the current contract and the date your account switches.

Again, sorry you were given duff info but hope this is useful. Give me a shout if I can help further as will be happy to do so.

Malc