My fixed energy tariff is ending:
here is exactly what to do
Your supplier will move you onto the standard variable rate automatically if you do nothing. Here are your options, when to act, and how to make sure you end up on the best deal.
When your fixed tariff ends, you are automatically moved onto your supplier's standard variable tariff (SVT) unless you act. Start comparing 4 to 7 weeks before your end date. Your supplier must give you 42 to 49 days notice. Many suppliers waive exit fees in the final 49 days so you can often switch early for free. Switching takes 5 working days and never cuts off your supply.
What are your options when a fixed tariff ends?
Timeline: what to do and when
Your supplier must notify you
Energy suppliers are legally required to contact you between 42 and 49 days before your fixed tariff ends. They must tell you your end date, what you will move onto if you do nothing, and what new deals they are offering. Check your email and account for this notice.
Compare by postcode
This is the ideal window to compare. Most suppliers waive exit fees in the final 49 days of a fixed contract, so you can switch without penalty. Compare the whole market by postcode — not just your current supplier's renewal offer. Use your annual kWh figures for the most accurate comparison.
Switch or confirm your new deal
Sign up to your new tariff. Your new supplier contacts your old one and handles the switch. The process takes 5 working days. Your supply is never interrupted. Take a meter reading on the day your tariff ends to ensure accurate billing from both your old and new supplier.
Mark your next end date in your calendar
As soon as your new tariff starts, set a calendar reminder for 7 weeks before its end date. Repeating this process at every renewal is the simplest way to ensure you are never rolled onto a default rate without knowing about it.
Fixing again vs staying on the variable rate
The right answer depends on where fixed deals are priced relative to the current cap. If a competitive fixed deal is available at or below the current SVT cap rate of £1,641, fixing gives you price certainty and protection against the next cap change. The Q3 2026 cap was announced on 27 May 2026 — check current forecasts when comparing.
If the cap is forecast to fall significantly, staying on the variable rate means your bills will drop automatically. However, forecasts are not guaranteed and the cap can move in either direction. For most households who want predictability in their bills, a competitive fixed deal is worth considering.
The one thing worth avoiding is doing nothing and rolling onto the SVT without comparing first. Even if you decide the SVT is the right choice after comparing, making that decision actively rather than by default ensures you have seen what else is available. See our energy tariff comparison guide for more on how to compare fixed and variable deals.
Standard variable tariff cap based on Ofgem Q2 2026 price cap (1 April to 30 June 2026). Supplier notification rules based on Ofgem licence conditions. Last updated May 2026.
Fixed tariff ending? Compare now
See what deals are available for your postcode. Takes 5 minutes, no obligation.
Questions people ask
Your supplier moves you onto their standard variable tariff automatically. The SVT is capped by Ofgem at £1,641 per year for a typical household in Q2 2026 but can change every quarter. You can switch away from the SVT at any time with no exit fees.
Start comparing 4 to 7 weeks before your end date. Your supplier must notify you 42 to 49 days in advance. Many suppliers waive exit fees in the final 49 days so you can switch without penalty.
If a competitive fixed deal is at or below the current cap rate, fixing gives you price certainty and protection against the next quarterly cap change. If the cap is forecast to fall, staying variable lets you benefit. Compare by postcode first before deciding.
Yes. You may pay an exit fee of £30 to £50 per fuel if you leave early. Many suppliers waive this in the final 49 days. Check your tariff terms for your exit-fee-free window. If the saving on a new tariff outweighs the fee, switching early can still make sense.
Related energy guides
Fixed tariff ending soon?
Compare deals available for your postcode before your end date. Takes 5 minutes, no obligation.
Compare tariffs now