Energy Bill Dispute Kit

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Energy Ombudsman date checker: can you escalate your complaint yet?

Enter the date of your first complaint, and the date of any deadlock letter. The checker shows when 8 weeks are up and your 12-month deadline. It runs in your browser; nothing is sent anywhere.

Great Britain · Rules checked 24 October 2026 · Not legal advice

1. When did you first complain to the supplier?


2. Have you had a deadlock or final response letter? (optional)


This tool gives general pointers, not legal advice. It can't see your bills or your supplier's records. Free help: Citizens Advice (England and Wales, 0808 223 1133) or energyadvice.scot (Scotland, 0808 196 8660).

The time limits

The checker counts 8 weeks as 56 days from your first complaint, and 12 months from the deadlock letter. It uses today's date from your device.

Changes on the way

In June 2026 the government said it would cut the waiting time from 8 weeks to 6. This was not in force when we checked on 24 October 2026. Check the Energy Ombudsman's website for the latest.

Questions

Do the 8 weeks start from my first phone call?

They start from when you first complained. Suppliers must accept complaints by phone as well as in writing, so note the date and get a reference number.

Can I ask for a deadlock letter?

Yes. If the supplier can't resolve your complaint, it must tell you in writing about your right to go to the Ombudsman. You can ask it to send a final response now.

Is the Energy Ombudsman free?

Yes, it's free for consumers. If you accept its decision, the supplier must carry it out.

What can the Ombudsman award?

It can make the supplier put things right, such as correcting bills or removing charges, and can add a financial award. It says a typical award is £50 to £100.

Related guides

Also free: Back-billing calculator · Energy bill checker