Scope is agreed before work begins
Every engagement starts with a written scope setting out what is included, what is not, and the fee. We do not begin on an open-ended basis and bill for whatever the work turns out to involve.
If the scope needs to change
Records frequently reveal more work than an initial review suggested: a backlog larger than described, missing supplier invoices, or periods that were never filed. Where that happens we come back to you with a revised scope and fee before continuing, not afterwards.
Documents and timelines
We will give you a specific list of what we need rather than a generic one. Timelines assume records arrive complete. Where documents are outstanding we will tell you what is missing and what the effect on the deadline is, rather than letting a date approach quietly.
Nothing is filed without your approval
You see the return and the figures behind it before anything is submitted. We will explain any adjustment that changed the result. Approval is yours to give, and the filed position is one you should understand well enough to stand behind if it is later queried.
Deadlines
We work to the statutory deadlines that apply to your business and will tell you what they are at the outset. Where a deadline has already passed when you engage us, we will say so and set out the position rather than treating it as routine.
Communication
You will have a named point of contact. Where a question arises about your records we will ask once and clearly, rather than in a series of small messages.
Independence
Where we prepare accounting records or a tax computation, we do not also audit that work. We prepare the audit file and handle auditor queries alongside whichever firm you appoint.
Confidentiality
Client information is treated as confidential and is not discussed with third parties without your instruction, except where disclosure is required by law. See our data security page for how documents are handled.
Ending an engagement
Either side may end an engagement. On termination we will provide the records belonging to you and confirm what has and has not been filed, so nothing is left ambiguous.