What you can claim after a power cut
DRAFT: This guide is waiting for review. Figures and wording may change before launch.
The short answer
If a power cut lasts a long time, your network operator usually pays you compensation automatically. In normal weather, a home can get £100 after 12 hours without power, then £45 for each further 12 hours. Different amounts apply in severe storms. One payment must be claimed: an extra £100 if you have more than 4 power cuts of 3 hours or more in a year. If a payment has not arrived after a few months, contact your network operator.
What you need
Most payments are automatic
Your network operator runs the power lines in your area. In England, Scotland and Wales, it must follow rules set by Ofgem, the energy regulator. If your power is off for too long, it pays you. You do not usually need to claim.
It may pay you by cheque, cash or bank transfer, or add the money to your energy account or prepayment meter through your supplier.
How much you may get
These amounts are for homes in England, Scotland and Wales. They change each year with inflation.
Normal weather.
- £100 after 12 hours without power.
- Then £45 for each further 12 hours.
- Up to £400 for one power cut.
If 5,000 homes or more are affected, the first payment comes after 24 hours instead.
Severe weather. Ofgem uses 2 storm categories, based on damage to the network. They are not the same as Met Office storm warnings.
- Category 1: £90 for the first 24 hours.
- Category 2: £90 for the first 48 hours.
- Then £45 for each further 6 hours, up to £2,235.
The payment you must claim
You may get an extra £100 if you have more than 4 power cuts in a year (1 April to 31 March), each lasting at least 3 hours. This one is not automatic. Claim it from your network operator. Keep a note of each power cut to help.
If a payment has not arrived
- Wait a few months. Operators fix every power cut first, then pay.
- Find your network operator. Our area page shows it, or call 105.
- Contact your network operator and ask about your payment.
- Ask about the late payment. If they missed a payment, they may owe you an extra £40.
Check power-cut compensation on the Ofgem website.
In Northern Ireland
NIE Networks runs the power lines. It has its own standards and payments, set in Northern Ireland rather than by Ofgem. Ask NIE Networks about payments for power cuts. To report a power cut, call 03457 643643.
What is not covered
These payments do not cover damaged appliances, spoiled food, or a power cut caused by a national power shortage. Your home insurance may cover some of these.
What you probably already own
- A pen and paper or your phone, to write down when the power went off and came back.
- Your energy bill, to show your supplier and address.
- Bank details, if your network operator asks how to pay you. Only give them to your operator, never to an unexpected caller.
Extra help during long power cuts
If someone at home may need extra help, join the free Priority Services Register. During long power cuts, network operators can offer registered homes extra updates and support, such as battery packs for some medical equipment. What is offered depends on the company. Read our guide to the Priority Services Register.
What to buy, if anything
Nothing. Claiming is free. Never pay a company to claim power-cut compensation for you.
For help with other costs, our help with costs tool lists schemes to check.
5 private questions, then a printable list of schemes to check, like help with bills and free safety visits.
Free tools and kit picks for this guide
Flood and weather warnings near you, your power network and water company.
5 private questions, then a printable list of schemes to check, like help with bills and free safety visits.
Common questions
Do I have to claim power-cut compensation?
Usually not. Most payments are automatic. The extra payment for having lots of power cuts in one year must be claimed from your network operator.
Who pays the compensation?
Your network operator, the company that runs the power lines in your area. It is not the company that sends your bill, but it may pay you through your supplier.
Will I be paid for food that spoiled in the freezer?
Not through these payments. They do not cover damaged appliances or spoiled food. Check your home insurance.
Local numbers
- Power cut in England, Scotland or Wales: call 105. It is free and connects you to your local network.
- Power cut in Northern Ireland: call NIE Networks on 03457 643643.
- Flood warnings in England, Wales or Scotland: call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.
- Flooding in Northern Ireland: call the Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100.
- Urgent medical help that is not an emergency: call NHS 111.
- If someone is in danger: call 999.
Find the power network, water company and live warnings for your postcode.
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