Skip to content Below are clear answers to the most common UK switching questions.
Yes, you can switch energy suppliers in the UK.
As long as your gas or electricity supply is active, you are free to move to a different supplier. Your energy supply will not be interrupted, and your existing supplier must cooperate with the switch.
Yes — almost everyone can switch energy supplier.
Homeowners, tenants, and people with smart meters can all switch. You do not need permission from your landlord, and your credit score is not usually affected unless you apply for a credit-based tariff.
Switching energy supplier usually takes 5 working days.
Once you choose a new tariff and supplier, the switch completes automatically. You can cancel within a 14-day cooling-off period if you change your mind.
The best time to switch is when your fixed tariff ends or prices fall.
If you are on a standard variable tariff, you can usually switch immediately. Checking deals when the price cap changes (April and October) can also help you save.
You should switch if you can get a cheaper or better tariff.
Many households save money by switching when deals are available. Comparing tariffs regularly helps ensure you are not overpaying on default or outdated plans.
Switching energy supplier is simple and done online.
Compare energy tariffs
Choose a new supplier
Apply online
Your new supplier handles the switch
You do not need to contact your old supplier, and your supply stays on throughout.
Yes, you can switch energy supplier with a debt in some cases.
If you owe less than £500 for electricity or £500 for gas, your debt can be transferred to the new supplier under the Debt Assignment Protocol.
Yes — tenants can switch energy suppliers.
You do not need landlord permission unless energy is included in your rent. The energy account must be in your name, and you must be responsible for paying the bills.
Switching energy supplier does not usually affect your credit score.
Most suppliers only run a soft credit check. A hard check may occur for certain fixed or credit-based tariffs, but switching itself does not damage your credit rating.
No — your gas and electricity supply will not be interrupted.
The switch happens in the background using the same pipes and wires. You will not notice any disruption during the process.
Your new supplier takes over your account automatically.
You submit meter readings, your final bill is issued by your old supplier, and future bills come from the new one. Everything else stays the same.
There is no single best month, but timing matters.
Switching when your tariff ends, or when new deals appear after price-cap updates, often delivers the best savings. Regular comparisons help catch new offers early.
For most UK households, yes.
Switching is quick, free, and low risk. Even small savings add up over time, especially for households on standard variable tariffs.
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