If you’re enrolled with a natural gas supplier, your supply agreement may eventually expire. Understanding what happens when that date comes can help you avoid surprises.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about what happens when your natural gas contract expires, so you can make informed decisions about your energy service.
What Does It Mean for a Natural Gas Contract to Expire?
When you agree to a natural gas contract, your agreement could be for a set period of time and may not continue indefinitely. Most residential natural gas agreements last somewhere between 12 and 36 months, while some automatically renew.Your natural gas contract expiration marks the date when your agreement with your current energy supplier ends.
Contract expiration only affects the supply portion of your service, not the physical delivery of natural gas. Your utility will continue delivering natural gas to your home regardless of what happens with your supply agreement.
As your contract approaches its end date, you’ll usually get information about your available options within 30-60 days, including renewal opportunities or any other actions you need to take.
What Happens If You Don’t Do Anything Before Your Contract Ends?
The outcome of your contract ending depends on your supplier, agreement, and the state you live in.
What Generally Happens
If you don’t take action before your contract expires, your account may transition according to the terms outlined in your agreement and state regulations. Regardless of what happens with your supplier agreement, your natural gas service will continue without interruption, since your utility will continue to deliver it.
What Happens for Customers
Depending on the agreement terms, customers who don’t renew may be returned to their utility’s default supply service, or could remain on an outdated rateCustomers should carefully review their renewal notices and respond before the deadline to maintain their current supplier relationship.
What Are Your Three Options at Contract Expiration?
When your natural gas contract ends, you have three choices.
1. Renew With Your Current Supplier
Your first option is to renew with your current supplier on a new agreement..
If you’re located in NY and are a current Agway customer, you may choose to renew your agreement with Agway to ensure that you continue receiving the value-added benefits associated with EnergyGuard. Reviewing your renewal offer before the expiration date is key to ensuring you transition smoothly into your new agreement period.
2. Switch to a Different Supplier
You may choose to enroll with another energy supplier if you find a plan that better matches your needs. If you switch suppliers, your utility will continue delivering your natural gas, and service is generally not interrupted during the transition.
3. Return to Your Utility’s Default Service
You may also choose to return to your utility’s default supply service. This option allows the utility to provide both supply and delivery service, though pricing structures and available benefits may differ from those offered through retail suppliers.
How Far in Advance Should You Act?
Generally, you should review your options several weeks before your contract ends. However, you should really review your options as soon as you receive a renewal notice. Waiting until the last minute may limit your ability to compare plans, ask questions, or complete any required paperwork before the expiration date.
How to Check Your Contract End Date
If you’re unsure when your agreement expires, there are several ways to check.
1. Review Your Renewal Notice
Natural gas suppliers typically send renewal information 30-60 days before your contract expires. This notice will include your contract expiration date and any applicable renewal information.
2. Check Your Agreement
Check your original enrollment documents. Typically, these documents will include important information about your contract term and expiration date.
3. Contact Agway
If you’re unable to locate your contract information, Agway’s customer service team can help you verify your agreement status and answer questions you may have about your options.
Stay Covered When Your Natural Gas Contract Expires
Your contract expiration means more than choosing a new supplier. It’s also a good opportunity to review any additional benefits that come with your current energy service.
For natural gas customers, Agway Energy Services® provides access to Agway EnergyGuard®, which may help cover repairs caused by wear and tear on qualifying heating equipment, such as natural gas furnaces and boilers*.
If your natural gas contract is approaching expiration, take time to review your options and learn how renewing your service can help you maintain access to valuable protection programs like EnergyGuard. Contact Agway to discuss your renewal options and available coverage.
Natural Gas Contract Frequently Asked Questions
Will my gas service be interrupted when my contract expires?
No, your gas service will not be interrupted when your natural gas contract expires. Your utility will continue delivering natural gas to your home regardless of your supplier agreement.
How does contract expiration work differently in NY vs. PA?
Both New York and Pennsylvania have consumer protection requirements, but each state differs in renewal processes and regulatory requirements. Refer to your specific agreement for expiration details.
Can I switch natural gas suppliers mid-contract?
Depending on your contract, you may be able to switch suppliers mid-contract. However, some agreements include early termination fees or other conditions that you should review before making a change.
I have a dual gas and electric contract with Agway. Do both expire at the same time?
Your gas and electric contracts may or may not expire at the same time. Natural gas and electricity agreements typically have different contract lengths and expiration dates. You can review your account information or contact Agway to confirm your expiration date for each service.
Does Agway notify me when my contract is expiring?
Yes, Agway will notify you before your contract expires so you can review your options and take necessary action. Be sure to review all renewal notices carefully and respond by the stated deadline.
*Coverage depends on commodity purchased.
