Billing errors are common due to metering problems, calculation mistakes and the improper application of rates/contract prices and taxes. A professional bill audit can produce significant savings. LPB audits bills from electricity, natural gas, water and sewer utility service providers.

We offer two types of bill audits: on-going (monthly) and historical. On-going audits are performed for all accounts under LPB’s procurement service. For clients who request a historical bill audit, LPB collects usage and billing histories directly from the utilities and/or energy providers. Once the data is collected, an audit is performed and a written report is issued. Upon our client’s approval, incorrect services are cancelled, rate changes are initiated, errors are corrected, and credits and refunds are obtained.

The following are a few examples of different types of savings available through LPB’s audit service:

1. Refunds: An error resulting in a refund of utility payments going back in time as far as the local and state laws allow. An example of this is a water leak that took place at a State facility and was repaired. No one disputes that the water was used and should be paid for; however, the sewer fees associated with the water consumption should be recovered, as the water did not go down the drain.
2. Future Savings: A correction of an error resulting in a reduction of charges for future utility bills. An example of this is an account that is on the wrong rate. Once the rate change is made, cost savings take place for all future bills, but no refunds are available due to the fact that it is the customer’s responsibility to know if they are on the right rate.
3. Both Refunds and Future Savings: A refund can also become a future saving. An example of this is when taxes are charged on a public agency account. In this case, a refund of three years is secured for past taxes and each future bill will no longer have the tax charges.