Question re switching energy provider

Kerry22

Hi there

I was trying to switch energy provider but have hit a problem. because I owe money to my current provider they are objecting to the switch.

I can pay off the money but it will leave things tight. So I requested keeping my direct debit with them and it will pay itself off in two months.

They will allow the direct debit but only if I stay with them.

I'm told the only way I can switch is to pay the amount owed in full.

No problem with this in theory, but wondered if anyone knows if the energy company are allowed to do this? I'm not sure where to look for information/advice. Anyone in the know about these things?

Thanks

[Deleted User]

As!far as i am aware you can change if you outstanding is no more than £500. I may be wrong but I'm sure i read this somewhere recently online. Of course your supplier can object if you owe

Nada666

The £500 is only for a prepayment meter. If you are on a credit meter the supplier can block you if the balance is -£0.01.

[Deleted User]

thanks for clarifying

Fish_n_Chips

I've never changed supplier...Each year I shop around find the cheapest quote...then when I get my renewal notice from my current supplier..I ring them tell them I'm thinking of leaving...Tell them my new rates ..They always match it or better it..:D

Saves the hassal of changing suppliers :beer:

tykanator

I just switched to nPower 2017 Fixed deal..is the price rises going to affect this? i.e. will the prices be fixed higher than previously? seems to be the top deal on the energy switcher (not as cheap as edf 2017, but longer fix for sake for 30 quid)

Any help appreciated


and to clarify - the prices will be fixed from todays tariff prices - not the prices set for 1st Dec?

Kerry22

Thanks everyone

I'm not on a pre-payment meter at all and owe £120.

If they are allowed to do this then so be it - I need to find the funds or stay put.....but I'd really like to know if they can be obstructive like this. All it takes it £60 x 2 months in direct debit, that I already have set up with them.

matelodave

I'm not sure why you think they are being obstructive - you owe them money. If you pay it back then they will be quite happy and you will be able to change suppliers.

They are an energy supplier, not a bank, which is effectively what you want them to be if you leave them owing money and expect them to lend you that amount, interest free. Not many banks would allow that

Kerry22

I did not intend to use the word in the judgemental sense, just the practical sense of them obstructing this switch. I don't need you to tell me I owe money by the way.

If I have to pay it back in full I'm ok with that, I'm really just trying to check if what they are doing is actually allowed, or would it be under criticism from the financial services authority. I've had a few people suggest that it would be, but I'm trying to find out.

Kerry22

My point is they are happy with a direct debit facility if I stay with them.

but a direct debit facility to pay off the small amount owed is not allowed if i'm leaving.

So for them the issue is not the money I owe, it's that i'm leaving.