How It Works
Utility bill validation is a straightforward but rigorous process. We take your invoices, contracts, and meter data, and reconcile every line item against what was agreed, what was consumed, and what industry rules allow. If something doesn’t add up, we evidence it and resolve it—so you only pay what’s correct.
The Validation Process, Step by Step
1. Data Collection
You provide recent invoices, contract schedules, and meter identifiers (MPAN/MPRN). We can also request half-hourly data directly from suppliers if required.
2. Data Reconciliation
Our analysts match invoices against contract terms, consumption records, and capacity levels. Every rate, standing charge, and pass-through cost is checked against the agreed schedule and actual data.
3. Exception Reporting
Any variances are flagged and quantified. Reports highlight the error, the cost impact, and the supporting evidence. You see a clear picture of where money has leaked and where refunds are due.
4. Resolution
With your approval, we liaise with suppliers to correct billing, secure credits, or recover refunds. Every step is documented for your records.
5. Retrospective Review
We extend the review back up to six years—the statutory limit for financial recovery. This often uncovers large historic overcharges missed by internal checks.
6. Ongoing Assurance
After initial validation, you can opt for ongoing monitoring. Each new invoice is checked automatically, so future errors are caught before payment is made.
What You Get at Each Stage
- Initial Check – a no-obligation review of recent bills, highlighting any obvious red flags.
- Full Audit – detailed validation of all invoices and contracts across six years.
- Exception Report – clear summaries showing what’s wrong, what it costs, and what needs to change.
- Board-Ready Output – findings mapped to cost centres, with supporting documentation for audit.
- Supplier Corrections – we handle the dialogue, you approve the outcomes.
- Ongoing Monitoring – monthly checks to prevent future errors.
Use Cases: Who This Helps
Business Owners
Get peace of mind that utility costs are correct and recover hidden cash. Ideal for new business owners inheriting contracts or sites without clear history.
Finance Directors
Replace assumptions with evidence. Improve forecast accuracy, tighten accruals, and safeguard margin visibility for the board.
Utility Managers
Stop recurring supplier errors. We act as a second line of defence, helping you right-size capacity, fix metering records, and gain confidence in your estate data.
Curious about the specific errors we detect most often? Read What We Do.
Want to see why we’re different from brokers and consultants? Visit Why Choose Energy Marketing and Trading Ltd.
Ready to See the Results?
Start with a simple bill check. We’ll show you where the red flags are and what it could mean for your bottom line.