Invoice Auditing
Invoice auditing is a Spill Center service that many subscribers request, especially for high-cost cleanup projects. The auditing service evaluates all charges from contractors, emergency responders and other service providers to confirm that they are reasonable and in line with charges for the same items from other contractors or service providers. Charges that are out of line or are unrelated to the loss are negotiated down.
Fire departments and other emergency response agencies have become aggressive in their demands for reimbursement from spill generators. Invoices commonly seek to recover costs for everything from cleaning and replacement of gear to overtime and benefits of personnel. As part of our audits, we frequently come across problems with invoices for emergency services.
Don't hesitate to request itemized charges and receipts showing that the department actually spent the amount invoiced. Request a copy of the ordinance that authorizes the fire department to bill spill generators for costs, too. Not all of them have the legal authority to seek reimbursement from you. Unauthorized and inflated charges, incomplete documentation and math errors commonly appear on invoices. Hourly rates for equipment vary widely, too.
Spill Center auditing service can easily pay for itself, producing significant savings for clients as well as the peace of mind in knowing that all charges are in line with industry standards.
