How long does it take to switch energy supplier?

Energy providers have a cooling-off period of 14 days, which starts from the date you submit your switch. Some suppliers may start processing the switch during this period, though you still have the right to cancel penalty-free within this 14 days.

The switch process can take up to five working days to complete, depending on supplier, although many will now switch you more quickly, or you can specify a later switch date (usually up to four weeks later, depending on the supplier you're switching to) if you wish.

But don't worry, you won't lose your supply during this time. It should be a seamless handover from one provider to the other. All that's really changing is the billing, not the actual gas and electricity you're supplied.

Energy suppliers are supposed to keep you updated on your switch (via letter/telephone/email - please keep an eye on your junk/spam folder). If you ever have any queries about your switch, you can always contact your energy supplier for an update.

Your old provider should send you a final bill no later than six weeks after the switch. If they owe you any money, they should refund this to you within 14 days after sending your final bill.

Also note that you still have a 14 day cooling-off period, but if you cancel after you've been switched, you'll be switched back to your original supplier, but will need to pay the firm for any energy you used.