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Energy contract foisted via a comparison portal

Some energy contracts arise via comparison portals, doorstep canvassers or over the phone, without consumers clearly wanting it. You can usually withdraw from such contracts and reject unjustified demands.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

Check for fraud

Your chances of getting your money back

Energy contracts concluded over the phone, at the door or over the internet are distance or off-premises contracts with a 14-day right of withdrawal (§ 355 BGB). With a missing instruction, the deadline is extended considerably.
If no valid contract was concluded or you withdrew in time, you owe the foisted provider nothing. Your energy supply continues via your existing contract or the basic supply.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the contract

    Clarify whether and how a contract is supposed to have come about.

  2. 2

    2. Declare the withdrawal

    Withdraw on time and verifiably toward the provider.

  3. 3

    3. Reject demands

    Reject unjustified invoices and debits in writing.

  4. 4

    4. Secure the supply

    Ensure that your desired provider or the basic supply continues to supply.

How to spot the scam

  • You receive a welcome from a provider you did not commission.
  • A telephone assurance is presented as a binding contract.
  • There is a threat of a cutoff or dunning costs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I withdraw from a foisted energy contract?

Usually yes. Contracts concluded over the phone, at the door or over the internet are withdrawable; in principle a 14-day deadline applies (§ 355 BGB), which is extended with a missing instruction. Declare the withdrawal clearly and verifiably toward the provider.

Must I pay the foisted provider?

If no valid contract came about or you withdrew in time, you owe him nothing. Reject unjustified invoices and debits in writing and have the alleged contract offer and your consent proven.

Am I left without electricity or gas?

No. Your energy supply is safeguarded via your existing contract or the basic and replacement supply. So you need not fear being left without energy while you clarify the foisted contract.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.