"I recognise that whilst auditors are expert professionals with integrity, they sometimes take short cuts and do not always "dot all the i's and cross all the t's".

My fees are recouped through technical improvements to audit files and time saved from adopting more efficient work methods.

Most auditors prefer the review to be carried out at their office premises since you would have your papers, files and client's accounting records to hand. But, no phone calls or interruptions.

You may want some of your colleagues and assistants to participate to get retraining in certain areas of audit work.

For my first audit file review, you should allow a full day since it takes time to properly review the various aspects of the audit file. You will also need time to discuss and clarify adjustments to be made in your audit approach and strategies.

If your audit file recording needs major improvements at a Hot Review, a follow up visit might be necessary to review completion of outstanding matters before issuing the Hot Review report.

I do not do the following:
- review of files sent by post
- Banks, FSA-regulated companies, Solicitors Accounts Rules."