Symbio Energy feedback

ywlgy

Got another change of variable tariff reminder today and Symbio sneakily did not include the link to select other tariffs than the 'recommended' rip-off tariff. Luckily the link in previous reminder still works.
The variable tariff continues to rise but it is still the cheapest across the market.

mattb_3

Same here. Email said tariff was rising to 17p/unit! Searched back through old emails as suggested and renewal tarrif is 12 point something. 

HonestJohn

thelight said:

devondiver said

Here's hoping your right. But the multiple posts about unilateral changes to higher tariffs, persistently ignoring actual meter readings, obfuscation regarding 'smart' meters, threats and numerous other blatantly dishonest practices do not bode well.

I'm still waiting for my Ofgem stipulated 'compensation' 6 months on from my official complaint and following the Ombudsman process to the letter.

So for all those customers who think the ombudsman will sort everything out - be prepared for a very long wait, probably ending in disappointment when Symbio ultimately folds. 

What has the Ombudsman had to say about them not paying?

Good question. I too have had a judgement against them.

BigBlueSky

Same here - Managed to use the old link OK and went for the SE02 v20 tariff.

devondiver

thelight said:

devondiver said

Here's hoping your right. But the multiple posts about unilateral changes to higher tariffs, persistently ignoring actual meter readings, obfuscation regarding 'smart' meters, threats and numerous other blatantly dishonest practices do not bode well.

I'm still waiting for my Ofgem stipulated 'compensation' 6 months on from my official complaint and following the Ombudsman process to the letter.

So for all those customers who think the ombudsman will sort everything out - be prepared for a very long wait, probably ending in disappointment when Symbio ultimately folds. 

What has the Ombudsman had to say about them not paying?

The Ombudsman Services (OS) decision was announced 22nd April. Symbio had until 30th May to pay the £60 statutory compensation.

On 29th May I received notification from OS entitled  "Resolution Implemented" and stating that "The company [Symbio] has confirmed that it has implemented all resolutions required on the case".

I enquired of OS what this is supposed to mean and informing that I had heard nothing from Symbio. I enquired what remedies were available if Symbio "continue to treat the regulators, as well as their customers, with contempt".

OS have replied that "our remedy implementation team" have been informed but did not mention possible further action.

I'm not holding my breath.  

Uncled2000

Symbio are very cheap, and no real problems , but.
Watch out for renewals. I'm on a (cheap) variable tariff and they can change it regularly at one months notice. I've just had a notification, and the new tariff they intend to put me on is 50% higher than my current one, more expensive than the Big 6 which they say they are £350 to £400 cheaper than. But on their web page they still, apparently, have far more competitive tariffs !
They also charge monthly in advance and substantially overestimate your bills, so you need to input meter readings regularly, and accept that you are helping finance them with one / two months of your normal bills. So can be a hassle, but they are cheap (so far)

bluecarlady

Uncle D 2000 I just tried to phone Symbio.  No luck.  Symbio are offering 18p standing charge and 18.378 per KWH.  So I tried to change tarrif to one where the standing charge was 10p.  But it says tarrif expired 31 May 2021.  Work that on out.

bluecarlady

ywlgy said:

Got another change of variable tariff reminder today and Symbio sneakily did not include the link to select other tariffs than the 'recommended' rip-off tariff. Luckily the link in previous reminder still works.
The variable tariff continues to rise but it is still the cheapest across the market.

Just tried this myself and yes ond link does work so now I am on a standing charge of 10p and unit rate of 12.049 per kwh from 01 July 2021

rp1974

Typical sneaky Symbio tactics in regards to their renewal quotes,you would (wrongly?) think that there's some kind of regulation in place that would ensure renewals should only display the cheapest price available to you though,even if there was Symbio would just casually disregard it as they do with many other regulations,with little consequence.

Uncled2000,yes there are cheaper tariffs available on the website,or on a renewal link which is conveniently absent from the current tariff update email,if you have a previous one the link will work.
Advance billings not restricted to Symbio who make that clear before joining,not reading your meters and supplying readings monthly irrespective of supplier will end badly.

Also odd that there's no change tariff button available when logged in,which means dealing with their so called customer service team,I've not had much cause or use for customer service in nearly two years,though on the handful of occasions that I have I've rapidly lost the will to live due to the lack of training and zero interest that's routinely shown.

LessImpecunious

bluecarlady said:

Uncle D 2000 I just tried to phone Symbio.  No luck.  Symbio are offering 18p standing charge and 18.378 per KWH.  So I tried to change tarrif to one where the standing charge was 10p.  But it says tarrif expired 31 May 2021.  Work that on out.

Try this link - takes me to currently available Fixed and Variable tariffs, inc standing charge 10p, etc: https://symbiogetquote.co.uk/Home/Renewal_Tariffs