No cooling-off period for businesses
Unlike a home energy deal, a business contract usually has no cooling-off period. The Consumer Council points out that once you've signed, you can't change your mind. Read the terms before you agree to anything, including on the phone.
Contract length and end date
Business contracts often run for 12 to 24 months, and some are open ended. Put your end date in the diary as soon as you sign.
Notice periods
Some suppliers ask for a long notice period before you can leave. The Consumer Council says it can be up to 150 days. Check yours early so you don't miss the window to switch.
What happens if you do nothing
If your contract ends and you haven't agreed a new one, you'll usually move onto a standard tariff with no discount. That's often more expensive than a contract rate.
Fixed or variable?
Check whether your price is fixed for the whole contract or can change. Ask how the price is made up, including VAT, pass-through charges and levies, and whether you'll need to pay a security deposit.
Moving premises
If you're moving in or out, tell your supplier the date and give a meter reading. Otherwise you could end up paying for someone else's energy.
Want a second pair of eyes?
Send us your bill and contract end date. We'll check it for free and tell you honestly when to act and what your options are.
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- Snap your billTake a photo, send a PDF or just give us a ring. Whatever's handiest.
- We check our UK supplier ratesWe already hold contracts with the main UK suppliers, so we check your bill against the rates we've got.
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- We sort the switchWe do the paperwork and the switch, then keep an eye on your renewals.
More guides
This guide is general information for Northern Ireland businesses, not financial advice. Supplier names are mentioned for information only and don't imply any partnership. Last reviewed October 2026.
