Questions to Ask

Questions to Ask Alternative Gas Suppliers

Are you certified with the ICC?

Price

• What is the price per therm?
• If the offer is not based on a specific price per therm, how is the price determined?
• Is this a fixed price or variable price?
• If it is a variable price, how can it change and how do I find out when the price will change?
• Does this price include every charge or fee? If not, what are the additional charges or fees?
• How long will the price remain in effect?
• Is my price each month determined by my actual monthly gas usage, an estimate of my monthly usage, or an average of my estimated annual usage?

Length of agreement

Regarding the Initial Term

• How long is the contract?
• What happens after the Initial Term expires?
• Does the contract continue month to month?
• Is there an automatic renewal? For how long?
• Does the price change?

Terms and Conditions

• Is there a fee if I cancel the contract early? What is the fee?
• Are there built-in price increases or decreases?
• Is there a customer incentive for signing up?
• Are there any special add-on services?
• Can the company cancel the contract?

Deposit

• What credit information will be required by the supplier?
• Does the agreement require a deposit?
• How does the supplier decide to ask for a deposit?
• What is the amount of the deposit?
• Can a deposit be required at any time during the agreement?
• When is payment of a deposit due?
• Under what circumstances can I expect to get a deposit refunded or returned?

Billing

• How will I be billed?
• Will I receive one bill or two?
• Who is going to bill me?
• What happens if I miss a payment?
• Is budget billing optional?