Is a doorstep energy supplier salesperson a scam?
Not always, but doorstep energy sales are a common route for high-pressure selling, slamming (switching without consent), and outright fraud.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Legitimate energy suppliers do employ door-to-door salespeople, but this channel also attracts fraudsters. 'Slamming' involves a salesperson switching your energy account without your proper consent, often by misrepresenting what you are agreeing to. In more extreme cases, fraudsters impersonate real energy companies to collect direct debit details. You are never obliged to agree to anything on the doorstep. Ask to see official ID, take the company's name, and verify independently before making any decisions. In many countries you have a 14-day cooling-off period to reverse a switch made at the door.
Common red flags
- Salesperson insists you sign or agree on the spot
- Caller pressures you by claiming your current contract is ending or prices are rising
- Unable to provide official company ID or registration number
- Asks for bank details before you have verified their identity
- Promises savings that seem unusually large without showing the figures
What to do now
- Do not sign or agree to anything on the doorstep under pressure
- Ask for written documentation and check the company on the official regulator's register
- Contact your current supplier if you suspect your account has been switched without consent
- Report doorstep fraud to your energy regulator and consumer protection authority
Frequently asked questions
What is 'slamming' in energy sales?
Slamming is switching someone's energy account without their informed consent. If it has happened to you, contact your new and old supplier and complain to your energy regulator — you have the right to be switched back.