What do auditors do? - Ad Valorem

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, understanding the role of auditors can significantly impact financial transparency, credibility, and business growth. This article aims to demystify the audit process for SMEs, shedding light on what auditors do and the valuable contributions they provide to businesses.

The Role of Auditors for SMEs

Financial Statement Examination

Auditors meticulously examine an SME’s financial statements, including the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. They scrutinise these documents in line with International Auditing Standards to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with accounting standards and Companies House and HMRC regulations. This step helps prevent financial irregularities and misrepresentation, providing a clear and accurate picture of the company’s financial health.

Internal Controls Evaluation

Auditors assess the internal controls of an SME. These controls are the policies and procedures designed to safeguard assets, prevent errors or fraud, and maintain compliance with laws and regulations. Evaluating these controls helps identify weaknesses that may lead to financial irregularities, ultimately improving the overall financial controls of the business. Under company law, directors have a fiduciary duty to ensure that the company has adequate controls in place to protect the interests of its shareholders.

Regulatory Compliance

SMEs, just like larger corporations, are subject to various laws and regulations. Auditors ensure that these companies comply with relevant accounting standards, tax laws, and industry-specific regulations. This process reduces legal risks and preserves the company’s reputation.

What Auditors Should Provide to SMEs

Assurance and Transparency

Auditors provide an independent and objective assessment of the SME’s financial statements in line with International Auditing Standards. Their stamp of approval offers stakeholders, such as investors, lenders, and partners, the assurance that the financial information is reliable and accurate.

Insights and Recommendations

Beyond validation, auditors offer valuable insights and recommendations. Through their evaluation of internal controls, they can identify areas for improvement, operational efficiency, and risk mitigation within the business. This guidance can lead to enhanced operations and better financial practices.

Compliance Guidance

Auditors should provide guidance to SMEs on compliance with regulations. This advice ensures that the company meets legal standards, reducing the risk of penalties or legal issues.

By Law if the SME has met two of the below conditions for two continuous years, they are required to have an audit.

• Turnover: £10.2 million or above
• Total assets: £5.1 million or above
• Average number of employees in the period: 50 or above

The Audit Process for SMEs

Engagement and Planning: It’s preferable to engage an audit firm in advance of the year end as it requires a lot of planning in advance, especially where a stock take is required. SMEs engage an audit firm, and both parties collaboratively plan the audit. This involves understanding the business, setting objectives, and devising an audit plan tailored to the SME’s specific needs.

Fieldwork: Auditors conduct the examination of financial records and internal controls. This may involve testing transactions, inspecting documents, and interviewing relevant staff.

Reporting: Once the fieldwork is complete, auditors present a comprehensive report outlining findings, recommendations, and areas for improvement. This report is an essential tool for stakeholders and regulatory compliance.

In conclusion, auditors play a crucial role in ensuring financial accuracy and compliance for SMEs in the UK. Their assessments provide a foundation for transparency, credibility, and improved business operations. By understanding what auditors do and what they can offer, SMEs can leverage these insights to bolster their financial health, enhance operations, and instil confidence among stakeholders and investors.

For more information on when your business may need an audit, read our article: “When does my business need an audit?”