Tips for buying energy products and services

  • Do not feel pressured to decide on the spot. Read and understand documents before you sign them.
  • Shop around. To help you make the right choice when choosing your energy supplier, visit the YourChoice website.
  • If you are offered a discount, check if it applies to all or part of the bill. Also, ask whether you must meet conditions to qualify for the discount, such as paying on time.
  • Make sure you have been provided with an offer summary, which explains everything you need to know about the energy plan that is being offered.
  • You have 10 business days to cancel an agreement made from door-to-door or telemarketing sales.
  • Make sure you see the salesperson's identification. They must show it to you without being asked. Record their full name, the company and date of their call.
  • Ask questions. Ensure salespeople provide you with all the facts you need before signing up to a contract.
  • If you do not want a salesperson to contact you by phone, join the 'do not call' register. If you do not want salespeople to come to your door, display a 'do not knock' sticker.
  • Watch out for energy salespeople who give the impression they are from the government when they are not.
  • Be wary of any salesperson who gives the impression that you will receive a discount or some other benefit relating to smart meters if you sign a new energy contract. This is not true. Energy distributors are responsible for installing smart meters and they will contact you by letter before installing your smart meter.
  • If a salesperson says you have no choice but to change as they are taking over supply in your area, this is not true. You can choose from a number of energy retailers.
  • For general information on dealing with door-to-door salespeople and telemarketers, view our Contracts, door-to-door sales and telemarketing section.

Last updated: 12/02/2013

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