I was recently in a situation where the Trustee wanted to back out of the engagement because I requested he supply me the accounts to support the valuation of an unlisted investment. I gave the Trustee 14 days and the Trustee ignored me. In backing out he was threatening to involve his lawyer. I have lodged the contavention report and issued a qualified audit report. The Trustee has sent a complaint the the Institute of Chartered Accountants and now I have to explain myself.

You should establish the ground rules that the accountant is responsible for submitting the docs & accounts for audit, if he does not have the docs how could he do the accounts. The accountant needs to correspond with his client. The client should demand the accountant act correctly on his behalf. If this cannot happen find an accountant who will do the job properly.

Hi Jason

Under section 35C(2) "the trustees must provide the auditor with the necessary documents to complete the audit in a timely and professional manner; and within 14 days of a written request from the auditor".

I would lodge the contravention report after reminding the trustees of your responsibility under this section and assuming your request to them was in writing.

Yes you can issue a qualified audit report if you have not been able to get the audit evidence requested.

Thanks

The Auditors Institute