Early Exit Fee Error

Nick87

Should an energy company notify before charging an early exit fee?

I switched at the end of my contract, but apparently it doesn't end until August. It started in June 2022 for 2 years so I thought that was June 2024.

I had no waring that I would be charged and no notification after it happened. I only noticed because money had been taken from my credit in my online account. Is this allowed?

Unfortunately the 14 day cooling off period for the switch ended yesterday. The new supplier doesn't charge an exit fee so have suggested i switch back. Will this work?

I can't get hold of the old supplier on the phone because it is an automated system that hangs up when it thinks it has answered my question. It means I am relying on emails that they say they will respond to in 5 days. 

Mark_d

There is a small possibility that you old provider would be able to reverse the switch.  This mean putting you in the position would would have been had you not switched.  It is not the same as switching back.

However given the issues contacting your old provider, you're most likely stuck where you are.

I only consider using suppliers with no exit fee.  Perhaps some people get marginally lower prices than me but if you accidentally hit by a fee, then any money you've saved is gone

saajan_12

Nick87 said:

Should an energy company notify before charging an early exit fee?

I switched at the end of my contract, but apparently it doesn't end until August. It started in June 2022 for 2 years so I thought that was June 2024.

Perhaps worth questioning the premise itself - why does the contract end in August rather than June? Was this reflected in the information you received when signing up, or could they be making a mistake?