Beachten sie DIESE Dinge, BEVOR sie einen Stromvertrag abschließen | Tipps mit Peter Giesel

Summary

In times of rising energy costs, some providers are exploiting customers with hidden price hikes. This script advises consumers to stay vigilant against deceptive practices, highlighting their right to terminate contracts within 14 days of receiving a price increase notice. It also explains the 'separated price adjustment clause' and the importance of consulting consumer centers for support. The script encourages consumers to compare prices and consider switching to the basic supplier if their current provider is too expensive, while reminding them to avoid pressure from telephone sales attempts and to conclude contracts in written form.

Takeaways

• 😟 In times of increasing energy costs, some providers are taking advantage to charge customers more money than necessary.
• 🔍 Energy prices are always fluctuating and can be significantly affected by crises like oil shortages or conflicts, such as in Ukraine.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Beware of hidden price increases that may come in the form of inconspicuous flyers with vague headlines and important information printed in small text at the end.
• 📬 If you receive a notice of a price increase, read the entire letter carefully and keep it for reference.
• 📝 In case of a price increase, you have the right to terminate your contract extraordinarily within 14 days after receiving the provider's letter.
• ⏰ Providers must announce price increases in a timely manner, at least four weeks before implementing them, and inform customers of their special termination right.
• 🤔 Use the two-week period to research other providers' prices and decide whether a special termination makes sense for you.
• 🚫 Be cautious of the 'separated price adjustment clause' which allows providers to pass on increased costs such as taxes and fees to customers.
• 🆘 If unsure, contact a consumer center for advice, especially if you find your provider too expensive and want to switch.
• 🏠 There's no need to fear a provider change or moving house without electricity or gas, as energy supply is legally regulated in Germany.
• 🆓 Start by comparing prices with other providers using various online platforms or consumer center advisors to find the best deal.
• 📉 Consider the basic supplier as a usually cheaper alternative, especially for new customers, and check local basic supply tariffs.
• 📞 Beware of telephone sales attempts; 'cold calling' is legally prohibited, and contracts must be concluded in written form, not just verbally.
• 🔄 If moving to a new address, ensure to terminate your contract in time and in writing to avoid double payments, and give the provider 14 days to offer a contract at the new address with the same conditions.
• 👥 If moving in with a partner who already has a contract with another provider, use the special termination right in time, six weeks before moving out, to ensure a smooth transition in energy or gas supply.

Q & A

Why are some energy providers increasing their prices during uncertain times of rising energy costs?

Some energy providers are taking advantage of the situation to charge customers more money than necessary, possibly due to the ongoing energy crisis or other factors.

How can hidden price increases be identified in a flyer or advertisement?

Hidden price increases are often disguised as harmless flyers with general headings that do not necessarily indicate a contract change. Important information about the price increase is usually found in small print at the end of the document.

What should consumers do when they receive a notice of a price increase?

Consumers should read the notice thoroughly, especially the small print, and keep it for reference. They should also remain calm and be aware of their rights in such situations.

What rights do consumers have when an energy provider announces a price increase?

Consumers have the right to terminate their contract extraordinarily within 14 days after receiving the notice from the energy provider.

How should energy providers announce a price increase according to the rules?

Energy providers must announce price increases in a timely manner, at least four weeks before the increase, and inform consumers about their special termination right.

What is the 'separated price adjustment clause' and why should consumers be cautious about it?

The 'separated price adjustment clause' allows energy providers to pass on additional costs, such as taxes and fees, to consumers. Consumers should be cautious as this clause can be used by some providers as an excuse for unjustified price increases.

What should consumers do if they are unsure about the terms in their energy contract?

If consumers are unsure about the terms, they should contact a consumer center for advice and assistance.

What are the legal provisions for energy supply in Germany in case a consumer wants to change providers?

The energy supply in Germany is legally regulated, ensuring that consumers are not left without electricity or gas. In case of a provider change, the so-called basic supplier will supply energy to the consumer, which could be the local municipal utilities.

How can consumers compare prices with other providers to find a better deal?

Consumers can use various online platforms or consult with consumer center advisors to compare current prices with new offers. They need their postal code and annual energy consumption, which can be found in their last gas or electricity bill.

Why is it recommended for consumers to consider the basic supplier's tariffs when looking for a new provider?

The basic supplier's tariffs are often a cost-effective alternative, especially for new customers. Checking and potentially switching to the basic supply tariffs can be a good option.

What are the two important things to consider when moving to a new address and changing energy providers?

First, consumers should terminate their contract with the current provider in writing and in time, at least six weeks before moving to avoid double payments. Second, if moving in with a partner who already has a contract with another provider, the consumer should use their special termination right six weeks before moving and inform their current provider.

Why is it important for consumers to avoid pressure from telephone sales attempts?

Telephone sales attempts, also known as 'cold calling,' are legally restricted, and contracts must be concluded in written form. Consumers should not feel pressured and should always close contracts in writing to avoid misunderstandings and hidden costs.