Your business energy contract has an end date, but that is not the only date to check. The notice rules, quotation expiry and proposed start date all matter. Treating them as one “renewal window” makes it easier to miss an obligation.
For quick answers alongside this guide, see our business energy renewal FAQs.
Four dates to keep separate
| Date | What it means | What to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Contract end date | When the current agreed term finishes | Check each fuel and site separately |
| Notice deadline, where applicable | When a valid termination notice must arrive | Required method, recipient and acknowledgement |
| Quotation expiry | How long the proposed price is available | Obtain the validity time in writing |
| New supply start date | When the next contract takes effect | Confirm acceptance and registration with the supplier |
A quotation does not terminate your existing agreement. Equally, giving notice does not arrange a replacement contract.
When should you begin?
As a planning suggestion, set a reminder three to four months before expiry. This is not a universal legal window or a prediction that prices will be lowest then. Your contract may require a different timetable, and some suppliers offer quotations further ahead.
At that reminder, collect your contract, recent bills and annual consumption. Ask the supplier to confirm the end date, any required notice and what prices apply if you make no new arrangement.
Do not assume every business has the same termination rules. Ofgem describes specific microbusiness protections, including a 30-day maximum termination notice for evergreen contracts. Ask which protections apply to your account rather than copying another company's deadline.
What happens if you miss the date?
Read the expiry wording. Some arrangements move to out-of-contract prices; others renew automatically. Neither should be casually described as a new occupier's deemed contract.
Ask for the applicable price and earliest permitted leaving date in writing. If a notice is disputed, keep its delivery evidence and request the precise contractual reason. Our renewal checklist covers the documents and price comparison.
Allow time to resolve switching problems
A normal supplier switch changes billing arrangements, not the physical connection, so it should not cause a power or gas interruption. Contract restrictions, disputed details or relevant debt can nevertheless delay the transfer.
Do not rely on an old generic estimate such as “four to six weeks”. Agree the intended date with the incoming supplier and track confirmation. Ofgem's business switching guidance explains when a switch may be possible and why a supplier may object.
Your renewal diary
- Record separate dates for electricity, gas and each premises.
- Save the current agreement and any notice acknowledgement.
- Compare offers using the same consumption and start date.
- Check pass-through costs, broker remuneration and exit terms.
- Confirm acceptance with the supplier before treating the renewal as complete.
- Take changeover readings and check the final and opening bills.
Can I agree a new contract before the old one ends?
You may be able to arrange a future start, subject to supplier acceptance and your existing obligations. Check that dates do not conflict.
Does an early reminder guarantee a cheaper deal?
No. It gives you time to consider options. Future market prices and savings are uncertain.
Ask Aarubi to review your renewal with your latest bill and confirmed contract dates. Guidance reviewed on 30 September 2026 for businesses in Great Britain.
