Had an uncomfortable situation come up with a Duke Energy commercial account audit. Found about $47K in overcharges dating back 18 months on their Schedule LGS rate. Client is pushing me to backdate my report to show I discovered this 6 months ago so they can claim a longer refund period. This feels wrong but they're threatening to not pay my fee if I don't comply. Anyone dealt with something similar? What's the right move here professionally?
Client wants me to backdating findings - advice needed
Derek, don't even think about it. That's fraud plain and simple. Your professional integrity isn't worth any client fee. I've walked away from clients who asked for similar things and never regretted it. Document everything they've asked you to do and stick to your actual findings dates. TVA territory has taught me that utilities will scrutinize backdated reports very carefully.
Terry's absolutely right. I had a similar situation with a Duquesne Light audit last year. Client wanted me to alter my methodology retroactively to increase savings. Told them no, they fired me, but I kept my license and reputation. The CUBA certification specifically addresses this under Section 4.2 of the ethics guidelines. Your signature date is your discovery date, period.
This is exactly why I always include a clause in my contracts about professional standards and accurate reporting dates. Had MLGW question a backdated report from another auditor once and it was a nightmare for everyone involved. The client ended up getting nothing because of the credibility issues. Better to lose one client than your entire career.
I'd also suggest reporting this client's behavior to CUBA if they continue pressuring you. This kind of stuff gives our whole profession a black eye. Ohio Edison has actually started requiring certified auditors only because of past issues with altered reports. Stand your ground Derek.
Document everything in writing. Email them your refusal and explain the ethical issues. Sometimes clients don't realize they're asking you to commit fraud. If they persist, run. Xcel Energy out here has started blacklisting auditors who submit questionable reports. Not worth the risk.
Had Entergy question one of my reports last month just because the timing seemed convenient for the customer. Even though everything was legitimate, it created weeks of extra work defending my findings. Imagine if you actually falsified dates - you'd be done in this business. Marie from Baton Rouge says stick to your guns.
Thanks everyone. You're all absolutely right. I sent them a professional email explaining why I can't alter the report dates and included references to CUBA ethics guidelines. They backed down and agreed to pay my fee. Turns out they just didn't understand the legal implications. Crisis averted and reputation intact.