The audit is an opportunity to challenge management constructively and identify areas for improvement and efficiency.

How we help RPs

As external auditors, we provide proactive, informed advice to help our registered provider of social housing (RP) clients achieve their charitable and commercial objectives. We see our relationship as a partnership.

Knowledge and communication

The diagram below shows the key components of our audit approach.

We place emphasis on planning. A project that is well planned helps to reduce the risk of surprises. Ensuring that the scope of our work is agreed and explained in advance and that all relevant issues are discussed as they arise is key to this.

The audit process for us is year-round rather than limited to one or two visits a year. We manage this with regular contact, the format of which we agree with our clients. The level of communication varies depending on the client's preferences and ranges from regular telephone conversations to more formal quarterly meetings. This allows us both to share in key developments and plans for their business, and enables us to provide advice at the right time.

During the audit we keep in touch with clients regularly to monitor progress. At the conclusion of our on-site work, prompt and effective reporting is essential and appropriate closing meetings are held with clients. Instead of relying on formal management letters, we also provide an audit highlights memo to share the findings of our audit work with senior management. This includes issues of use or interest to management that are not control weaknesses by nature and are therefore not included in the management letter. We tailor our reporting style to the needs of each RP that we work with.

Some of our RP audit services

  • Statutory audits
  • Service charge audits
  • PPA audits
  • Business plan validations
  • Loan certificate confirmations
  • Other third-party confirmations

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.