article_snippet.sent: Industry rules state that energy companies must give customers 30 days’ notice of any price rise.
article_snippet.sent: Once a customer states they intend to move, the firm is not allowed to impose an exit fee or apply the new higher tariff even if the move takes place after the date of the increase.
article_snippet.sent: These are important customer protections and it is vital suppliers play by the rules.
article_snippet.sent: ‘Consumer rights cannot be ignored,’ Citizens Advice chief executive Gillian Guy said.
article_snippet.sent: Customers shouldn’t be trapped in higher bills.
article_snippet.sent: With prices up a third since 2010 people must have the freedom to shop around for a better deal.
article_snippet.sent: Consumers must be confident that the regulator will take strong action when companies fail so this judgment is welcome news.