When a fixed energy tariff ends, you are typically moved automatically onto a standard variable tariff (SVT). And in many cases, that means higher rates.
If your energy contract is ending soon, this guide will walk you through:
What actually happens when a tariff expires
How the renewal process works
When you can switch without exit fees
How to compare energy deals strategically
Common mistakes to avoid
The goal is simple: avoid passive overpayment.
What Happens When Your Energy Contract Ends?
Let's start from first principles.
A fixed energy contract locks in:
Unit rate (price per kWh)
Standing charge
Contract duration
When that fixed term ends:
The protection of fixed pricing ends.
You are usually moved automatically to a standard variable tariff.
Your rates may change.
Standard variable tariffs:
Have no fixed end date
Allow price adjustments
Are often more expensive long-term
When Should You Start Comparing?
At Utility King, we recommend reviewing your options 4 to 6 weeks before your contract ends.
In many regulated markets:
You can switch within the final 49 days of your contract
No exit fees apply during this window
This is known as the renewal window.
Waiting until after your contract expires may result in:
Temporary higher payments
Missed fixed-rate opportunities
Timing matters.
How to Check When Your Contract Ends
You can find your contract end date:
On your latest energy bill
In your online account
In your original contract documentation
Suppliers are usually required to notify you before your tariff ends.
However, do not rely solely on reminder emails.
Take proactive control.
Step-by-Step: How to Compare Energy Contracts Ending Soon
At Utility King, we advise a structured comparison process.
Gather Your Annual Usage (kWh)
You need:
- Electricity usage (annual kWh)
- Gas usage (annual kWh)
This allows accurate total annual cost comparison. Without real usage data, estimated savings may be misleading.
Calculate Your Current Annual Cost
Using your fixed tariff rates, calculate:
This becomes your financial baseline.
Compare Fixed and Variable Tariffs
When reviewing energy deals, you will see:
Fixed Tariffs
- Locked-in rates
- Predictable bills
- Possible exit fees
Standard Variable Tariffs
- Flexible
- No fixed end date
- Rates may change
If your contract is ending during market volatility, a competitive fixed deal may provide stability. If prices are trending downward, flexibility may appeal.
Review Standing Charges Carefully
Many consumers focus only on unit rate.
However:
- Standing charges apply daily
- Low-usage homes are more affected
- Regional differences matter
Total annual cost is what counts.
Check Exit Fees Before Switching Early
If you are still outside the renewal window, early termination charges may apply.
Compare:
- Exit fee cost
- Potential savings from switching
Sometimes waiting a few weeks avoids unnecessary penalties.
Should You Accept Your Supplier's Renewal Offer?
When your contract ends, your supplier may offer a "loyalty" renewal tariff.
Before accepting:
Compare the renewal rate with market alternatives
Calculate total annual cost difference
Evaluate service quality and financial stability
Loyalty does not automatically mean best value. Always compare before committing.
Is It Safe to Switch Before Contract Ends?
Yes — provided you are within the penalty-free renewal window.
Switching energy supplier:
Does not interrupt supply
Does not require physical changes
Is fully regulated
Includes a cooling-off period
Your electricity and gas continue flowing through the same infrastructure. Only your billing provider changes.
What If You Do Nothing?
If you take no action:
You move to a standard variable tariff
Your rates may increase
You lose price protection
While SVTs offer flexibility, they are often more expensive than competitive fixed deals. Doing nothing is rarely the most cost-effective strategy.
Special Situations to Consider
Moving House Soon
Short-term flexibility may matter more than locking into a long contract.
Installing Solar or Heat Pumps
If your energy profile is about to change, choose a tariff aligned with new consumption.
Significant Market Shifts
Monitor wholesale trends before locking into long-term pricing.
Utility King's Perspective
At Utility King, we view contract expiry as a financial decision point — not a passive administrative event.
The most common mistake households make is: Letting a fixed tariff expire without reviewing alternatives.
Energy comparison when contracts are ending soon allows you to:
Lock in competitive pricing
Avoid automatic SVT rollover
Maintain budgeting stability
Optimise total annual cost
Energy markets reward proactive consumers. Waiting costs money.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I switch without exit fees?
Usually within the final 49 days of your fixed contract, but confirm with your supplier.
What happens if I miss my renewal window?
You are typically moved onto a standard variable tariff.
Are renewal offers from my supplier competitive?
Sometimes — but always compare before accepting.
Should I fix again or go variable?
It depends on market conditions and your risk tolerance.
Is switching energy supplier safe?
Yes. Switching does not interrupt your supply.
How long does switching take?
Typically between 2 and 5 weeks.