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Act quickly when changing electricity providers: rights and tips for consumers!
Find out how you can use your rights when changing electricity providers and challenge incorrect allocation of study places at universities.
Act quickly when changing electricity providers: rights and tips for consumers!
Anyone who has recently chosen a new electricity provider or is thinking about doing so might be well advised to find out about their rights. Claudia Kreft from MDR Ratgeber recommends acting quickly as soon as a letter from a new provider or a confirmation of cancellation from the previous provider lands in your mailbox. Even if you think you have signed a new contract, it is still worth taking action. Consumers often encounter tricks and scams that are commonplace when switching electricity providers. That's why it's important to be vigilant and, if necessary, react in good time to prevent possible problems.
An important point: For contracts concluded outside of business premises, consumers have a right of withdrawal of 14 days. If the information about this right is inadequate, the period is extended to 1 year and 14 days. It is therefore highly advisable to send a written cancellation request, ideally by registered mail.
Right of withdrawal when changing provider
Anyone who is considering changing their electricity provider has the right to withdraw. This also applies to online exchanges, whereby the statutory deadlines of the German Civil Code (BGB) for distance selling transactions apply. Here too, the revocation must be made in writing. It is important to note that this right of withdrawal only applies to private electricity customers. A trader does not benefit from this regulation, which is why it is crucial whether you register as a commercial or private customer.
If someone has changed providers via an online electricity comparison, they usually have a full right of cancellation, provided the information was truthful and they have not registered as a business customer. These provisions are essential to avoid misunderstandings and possible legal difficulties.
Important tips for consumers
As Federal Consumer Assistance notes, it is very important for consumers to obtain thorough information before switching providers. By carefully comparing electricity providers, several advantages can be achieved. Those who are well informed have the best chance of choosing a reputable provider and protecting themselves from fraudsters who may use dubious practices. Ideally, all documents and contract confirmations should be carefully stored so that appropriate evidence can be provided in the event of disputes.
In summary: When changing electricity providers, it is important to know your rights and use them proactively. This protects against unpleasant surprises and nasty cost traps afterwards. Informed consumers simply act smarter and safer in the world of energy supply contracts.
Further information and legal tips on consumer rights in the area of energy supply can be found at MDR guide, Federal Consumer Assistance, as well as Electricity provider price comparison.