The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has released an open letter addressing domestic heating oil suppliers regarding the necessity for fair and transparent terms and conditions in their contracts with consumers.

This reminder is particularly crucial when contract terms attempt to limit or eliminate a supplier's liability to consumers, especially in cases of non-performance or delays in fulfilling contractual obligations.

The CMA's intervention follows concerns that some heating oil suppliers canceled orders amid rising prices and demand due to the conflict in the Middle East. As a result of these findings, the CMA secured voluntary compensation for hundreds of customers who were affected after placing orders through an intermediary site.

For further details, the CMA has encouraged stakeholders to review their practices in light of this guidance.