Choosing a utility broker can save your business time, money, and stress—but only if you pick the right one. The wrong choice could cost you thousands in hidden fees, overcomplicated contracts, and poor customer support.
In this guide, we’ll reveal the top 5 mistakes businesses make when selecting a utility broker, and what you should look for to ensure you're getting the best deal and the right service.
The Mistake:
Many business owners assume utility brokers work for free. In reality, most are paid commission by the suppliers they recommend—and some take hefty margins that are rolled into your bill.
Why It Matters:
Lack of transparency can lead to inflated prices, and you might not be getting the best deal—just the one that pays the broker most.
How to Avoid It:
Ask upfront: “How do you get paid?”
Request a breakdown of your unit rate vs broker margin.
Work with brokers who are open and regulated—like The Utilities Group, which provides clear, no-surprise quotes.
The Mistake:
Some brokers only compare prices from a limited panel of energy providers. That means you're not getting a full view of the market.
Why It Matters:
You could miss out on better deals from suppliers that aren’t on their panel, especially if you’re in a niche sector or need green energy.
How to Avoid It:
Ask: “How many suppliers do you compare?”
Look for brokers who compare 15+ suppliers, including both the Big Six and independents.
The Mistake:
Businesses often sign contracts without reviewing:
Exit clauses
Auto-renewal terms
Standing charges
Hidden fees
Why It Matters:
These small details can lead to being trapped in expensive contracts—or paying penalties to leave early.
How to Avoid It:
Request a copy of the full contract before signing.
Ask for key terms in plain English.
Choose brokers who help explain contract details and give you time to review.
The Mistake:
High-pressure sales tactics and urgent calls claiming “rates are rising” often push businesses into hasty decisions.
Why It Matters:
Legitimate brokers don’t rush you into signing. If someone pressures you, it’s a red flag.
How to Avoid It:
Never sign a contract during a cold call.
Work with brokers who offer no-obligation quotes and give you time to think.
Look for testimonials or reviews confirming a no-pressure approach.
The Mistake:
Many brokers disappear after the deal is done—leaving you to deal with supplier issues, billing errors, or renewals alone.
Why It Matters:
A good broker should support you before, during, and after your contract starts.
How to Avoid It:
Ask if they offer a dedicated account manager.
Check what help they provide if you run into issues with your supplier.
Look for brokers who build long-term relationships, not one-off deals.
The right utility broker can secure your business competitive rates, transparent contracts, and valuable long-term support. But avoiding these five common mistakes is key to protecting your business from hidden costs and poor service.
At The Utilities Group, we take a no-pressure, transparent approach to energy switching. We work with over 15 leading suppliers, provide full contract visibility, and assign a dedicated account manager to every client.
👉 Get your free business energy quote today—or contact us for honest, expert advice.
The Utilities Group — Switching Made Simple.