Question for the veterans - how often should portfolio clients get re-audited? I have a manufacturing company with 45 facilities that I audited 2 years ago. They want to know if annual, bi-annual, or every 3 years makes more sense from a cost-benefit perspective. What's your experience?
Recurring audit cycles for portfolio clients
Depends on the client's complexity and rate of change. Manufacturing facilities that expand equipment or modify processes should be audited annually. Stable office buildings might only need it every 2-3 years. I usually recommend annual quick-checks with full audits every 2 years as a compromise.
Terry's got the right framework. Also consider regulatory changes - new rate structures, tax law modifications, or utility mergers can create new savings opportunities. I've seen clients miss out on $50K+ in savings by waiting too long between audits. The ongoing relationship is often more valuable than the initial audit.