Frequently asked questions
What should a Hamburg company clarify before contacting an audit firm?
Prepare the company’s legal structure, reporting period, reason for the audit and any deadline that applies. It also helps to explain whether you need accounting, tax preparation or legal coordination alongside the audit.
Ask what documents the firm wants first and who will handle the initial conversation.
Can an audit firm also help with tax matters?
Some providers combine auditing with tax consulting, accounting or tax preparation, while others focus more narrowly on assurance work. Confirm the exact scope before assuming the services are combined.
If tax and audit work are connected, ask how responsibilities, communication and potential conflicts are managed.
How do I choose between a chartered accountant and a large audit firm?
Start with the complexity of the engagement, your reporting obligations and the level of specialist support required. A chartered accountant may suit a focused assignment, while a larger firm may offer broader teams and connected services.
Compare relevant experience, communication arrangements and availability rather than choosing by category alone.
What documents might an auditor request?
The request depends on the assignment, but commonly includes financial statements, accounting records, contracts, invoices, bank information and supporting documentation for significant transactions.
Ask for a tailored checklist at the start so your team can prepare the material in the required format.
Should I confirm availability before visiting an audit office?
Yes. Audit work is often arranged around reporting deadlines and specialist availability, so an office visit should be scheduled in advance. Confirm the responsible contact, meeting format and documents to bring.
This is especially useful when your matter involves both audit and connected tax or legal questions.