Standard Audit Workflow - What's Your Process?

I've been doing this for about 8 months now and want to make sure I'm not missing anything in my standard workflow. Here's what I typically do:

1. Request 36 months of bills
2. Check rate schedules and tariff changes
3. Verify meter readings and multipliers
4. Look for demand ratchets and power factor penalties
5. Check for applicable rebates/credits

What am I missing? What's your standard process look like?

Ed, that's a solid start. I'd add a few things:

- Always verify the service class matches actual usage patterns
- Check CT ratios if it's a larger account
- Look at seasonal usage patterns for any obvious anomalies
- Verify tax exemptions are being applied correctly

I also always check the utility's general terms and conditions for any special provisions that might apply.

Don't forget about contract vs. tariff rates. I see a lot of newer auditors miss this - especially with larger commercial accounts that might have negotiated rates or be on alternative rate structures.

Also, Ed, you mentioned 36 months but I typically go back 5 years if the client allows it. Statute of limitations varies by state but you want to capture as much as possible.

Great points everyone. Lenny, that's exactly the kind of thing I worry about missing. How do you typically find out about billing system changes? Do you have contacts at the utilities or is there somewhere that gets published?

Ed, I keep a database of utility contacts and try to maintain relationships with the commercial billing departments. They're usually pretty helpful if you're professional about it. Also subscribe to PUC filings - those often mention system upgrades or changes that can affect billing.

PSC websites usually have this info too, just have to dig for it sometimes.

One thing I learned the hard way - always check for billing system changes during your audit period. ComEd switched systems back in 2009 and there were some weird anomalies for about 6 months where they were double-billing certain fees.

Saved a client $14,000 just by catching that.