Big 6

Big_Foot

in the past year I have on two occasions attempted to change energy providers on the recommendations of comparison websites. On both occasions I checked the tariffs on the comparison website before changing and again when I received the documentation from the new providers. On both, the documentation from the new providers showed a higher tariff than that shown on the website. When challenged both providers stated prices had risen during the switch to the new provider. But, neither made it obvious about the higher tariffs which could easily slip by had I not been careful. I withdrew from the switches.
Coincidence?
Be very careful when using comparison websites, check the tariff then and again when you get the paperwork from your chosen new provider.
Big Foot

macman

Non-fixed tariffs can increase at any time , from the day you sign up for a switch.
If you don't want this,, why not opt for a fixed tariff?

Big_Foot

Missing the point Macman,
1. If these tariffs are so bad why are the comparison websites (who are supposed to be on our side) listing them? And, if after running comparisons and choosing a new provider that provider conveniently raises it's prices when you sign up, is that not fraud? And, is not the comparison website assisting in that fraud?

backfoot

Which comparison website did you use? They have Representatives on the Forum who will investigate your complaint.

I haven't come across your situation in all the years of using Comparison websites. Did you make the switch via the CW or via a cashback route?

It is unlikely to be fraudelent activity but could be an administrative delay in withdrawing the tariff from the site.

Which products did you apply for and on what dates? Was this the product you were offerred or a different one?



More likely, some products are discounted as a percentage below the standard rate. If the standard rate changes during the period from application to switch completion then you will legitimately be charged the altered rate.

Hope this helps.

macman

Big_Foot wrote: »

Missing the point Macman,
1. If these tariffs are so bad why are the comparison websites (who are supposed to be on our side) listing them? And, if after running comparisons and choosing a new provider that provider conveniently raises it's prices when you sign up, is that not fraud? And, is not the comparison website assisting in that fraud?

Not missing the point at all. If a supplier raises it's prices after someone commences a switch via a comp site, how is that the fault of the comp site? They have no more notice of increases than anyone else, and once they are informed they will update their databases. The customer has the cooling-off period to cancel if they so wish.
Comp site list all tariffs, good and bad.