Auditors in London

What is an Audit?

It is a verification, like examination or inspection, of a quality system or process to ensure compliance with the requirements.

It can be applied to functions of an entire organisation or be focused on specific functions, processes, or production steps. Some audits can have specific objectives, such as auditing documents, assessing risk, evaluating performance, or monitoring corrective actions, while others are more general.

What is an external audit?

A statutory or external audit involves examining a business's financial statements to provide an audit opinion on whether financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of an entity. It is one of the most commonly used types of audit.

Who appoints external auditors?

The shareholders typically appoint external or statutory auditors during the company's Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Who performs an external audit?

An auditing firm or an independent big 4 auditor performs the audit.

Does your company need an external audit?

An audit of a firm's financial statements is mandatory unless the firm is exempt from auditing.

By law, certain firms are required to conduct an audit:

• A non-profit making firm subject to a public sector audit.
• public company
• a subsidiary firm (unless it is exempt)
• an insurance firm or a firm carrying out insurance market activity
• banking businesses
• electronic money (e-money) issuer
• MiFID (Markets in Financial Instruments Directive) investment company
• UCITS management firm
• its shares traded on a regulated market
• funder of a master trust pensions scheme
• special register body
• pensions or labor relations body

To be exempt from an audit, a firm should either qualify as small or have qualified as small in the previous year.

For a firm to be considered small, two of the following financial criteria should be met:

• The group's turnover should not exceed £10.2 million
• The group's total assets should be less than £5.1 million
• The group should have less than 50 employees

The criteria mentioned above should be met by the firm's group if the firm is part of a group.

However, even if exempt, entities or individuals holding 10% or more of the firm's shares can request an audit.

Is an auditor only focused on a small business's annual accounts?

The short answer is yes!

It is possible to hire an auditor for additional purposes, like preparing tax returns or bookkeeping, provided your Auditor doesn't take part in the firm's management.

How long does it take to complete an external audit?

The time to complete an audit is based on various factors, including the size of the company and the efficiency of its internal record-keeping system.

Typically, from start to end, audits are scheduled for three months – four weeks of planning, four weeks of fieldwork, and four weeks of preparing the audit report and discussing its results.

However, a straightforward audit can be done within 4 to 6 weeks.

What happens after an external audit?

After an external audit completion, auditors issue an Auditor's report to the shareholders. In the report, auditors providean audit opinion on whether the firm's financial statements are free from material misstatements.

There are four types of audit reports, unqualified or clean, qualified, disclaimer or adverse.

Routinely, auditors also offer a separate report to the audit committee highlighting control weaknesses and other less important issues.

Is detecting and preventing fraud the responsibility of external auditors?

External auditors are not liable for detecting or preventing fraud.

Frequency of external audit?

Typically, an external audit is conducted once a year to meet the statutory requirements.

What should your small business do with the audited accounts?

A small business must submit its audited accounts to Companies House annually.

Companies House publishes audited accounts publicly so that the stakeholders of your firm, including other firms with which your company trades, can decide whether they wish to do business with you.

Can my accountant serve as my Auditor?

No, an individual cannot be an auditor for your firm if they are part of the management team. This includes officers, employees, partners, or anyone associated with the firm.

How to prepare for your first statutory audit?

• Plan a timeline for the audit process
• Create an audit plan
• Designate an audit coordinator
• Talk with your staff about the audit process
• Conduct regular meetings with the audit manager
• Draft your control and process documents
• Review all relevant records
• Prepare the audit working paper file.

How much does an external audit cost?

The cost of an audit is typically a combination of fixed fees and additional expenses incurred during the process. The fee for an audit is often influenced by the number of transactions, the complexity of the structure, any inventory valuation, location, and the requirement for engaging a subject matter expert (SME).

Many organisations find audit fees expensive as it is a regulatory need. However, the result of an audit can deteriorate or increase the company's reputation among stakeholders and investors.

Any opinion other than an unqualified audit is not typically perceived positively by the investors. Hence, it is important to find a reliable auditor.

How to prepare for a cost-effective external audit?

Various things can be done to ensure an audit runs as effectively as possible.

Firstly, ensure all accounting staff is present when the auditors are on-site with you. Additionally, having the following key documents mentioned below readily available before the audit can minimise the disruption to your staff members and ensure a smoother audit process:

• Draft financial records
• Draft Directors report
• Organisational chart
• Year-end bank reconciliation statements
• A detailed listing of all balance sheet amounts with supporting invoices for items like new fixed assets, and expenses.
• Aged listing of accounts payable and receivables
• P11D tax returns and employee wage records
• Inventory reports
• Hire purchase and leasing agreements
• VAT returns and workings
• Summary of any events that happened after the balance sheet date
• Internal audit reports (if applicable)
• Minutes from all meetings held throughout the year and data on any modifications in share ownership

What is an internal audit?

Simply put, the internal audit function is liable for monitoring the efficiency and effectiveness of the internal controls and related procedures that the management has established.

Who does the internal Auditor report to?

As the name implies, internal auditors are employees of the company. The head of internal audit (commonly known as Chief Internal Auditor or CIA) reports to the audit committee. For administrative reasons, the CIA reports to the CEO of a company.

Frequency of internal audit?

An internal audit can be performed daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly based on the schedule and circumstances that best fit an organisation's needs. Regular internal auditing can determine gaps in compliance with business procedures and policies.

Why have an internal audit function?

The real question is, what is the reason for having an internal audit in the first place? It is because the entire responsibility of monitoring an efficient internal control system lies with the management.

For this, management requires a system to evaluate the effectiveness and performance of the internal controls.

What are the internal controls?

Internal Control is a set of procedures by a company's management to meet business goals while following rules and regulations, protecting assets, improving operational efficiency and accuracy, and ensuring the reliability of financial reports.

How does Experlu help you in an audit?

An audit plays an important role in any size of an organisation. Choosing the ideal Auditor as per your company's requirements can be difficult.

But it's simple with Experlu. We have a large network of auditors to assist your company in any size and industry.

Tell us your requirements, the number of businesses to be audited, budget, accounting framework and timeline. Select an Auditor from the three auditors who match your auditing requirements. All this is free.

Top rated auditors in London, UK 2026 updated List

Audit plays a vital role for businesses in the UK due to increased corporate governance, financial transparency, and changing regulatory compliance. However, the process is daunting, and people search for audit firms near me to find the best solutions.

Fortunately, the top auditing firms in UK help their clients meet financial needs and ensure top auditing services.

One of the vital decisions for business owners is to choose the best auditor in the UK as they can save companies from future costly mistakes.

This blog post will list a few essential tips for choosing registered auditors London and compile the top 20 auditors in UK.

Why do you need an auditor?

You may qualify for an audit exemption if your business covers at least two of the following:

• An annual turnover of £10.2 million or less
• Your assets aren't worth more than £5.1 million
• You have 50 or fewer employees on average

However, if the shareholders owning at least 10% of your shares ask you to get audits, even when your company is usually exempt, you must get your accounts audited.

Besides, the following set of companies must have an audit:

• A public company
• A subsidiary company
• An authorised Insurance Company
• A company carrying out insurance market activity
• Businesses involved in banking
• An issuer of electronic money
• A MiFLD (Markets in Financial Instruments Directive) investment firm
• A UCITS (Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities) management company
• A corporate business and its shares have been traded on the regulated market
• A funder of a master trust pensions scheme
• A special register body
• A pensions or labour relations body

Most established businesses require hiring professional auditors. Companies with good audit budgets prefer choosing the big 4 audit firms. However, you can also choose other auditors with good reputations and experience in London while not costing you a fortune.

A professional auditor provides audit reports based on their findings from your financial documents. They ensure compliance with various regulatory requirements in UK and help you avoid penalties and legal consequences. These reports can improve your shareholders and investors' trust in your present financial stability and if all your financial statements are free from misstatements.

How do we select the best auditor?

To select the best auditor uk, you must thoroughly evaluate and assess potential candidates. Here are a few things to consider

One of the most important considerations while hiring an auditor is the fees. It must be within your business or personal budget. However, remember the cheapest or the most expensive auditors must not be the best choice. You must request fee proposals and payment plans from the shortlisted audit firms.

The audit fees may vary from one organization to the next depending on multiple factors.

Sole traders, especially startups and small businesses, have different audit needs; therefore, they must choose an audit firm depending on their size and needs.

Additionally, they must check if the firm has previous experience working in a similar industry and business size.

Ask for referrals or recommendations from friends and business associates, and assess for the best choice. Additionally, you can differentiate between other audit firms and compare them efficiently. Conduct extensive research on potential auditors. Visit their websites, review their client testimonials, and evaluate their experience in your industry to make the right choice.

The number of clients handled by specialist auditing firms UK varies greatly, ranging from 100 to several thousand.

Each of these firms usually offers different kinds of services. You should evaluate which one suits you the best depending on your needs.

Top 20 auditors and audit firms in London UK 2026 [updated List]

Granite Morgan Smith - Auditors in Essex

Granite Morgan Smith is a well-established audit team based in Colchester and Maldon, serving businesses across Essex. Known for its personal and approachable service, the firm works closely with sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies.

Their services include statutory audits, assurance, bookkeeping, tax compliance, and financial management. Granite Morgan Smith is particularly valued by owner-managed businesses looking for practical advice and long-term audit support.

Mushambi & Associates - ACCA Authorised Auditors in the UK

Mushambi & Associates is a London-based audit firm with an additional presence in Birmingham. The firm provides tailored audit, accounting, taxation, and advisory services to individuals and UK-registered businesses.

Authorised by ACCA to carry out statutory audits, Mushambi & Associates supports clients across multiple sectors, offering compliant and cost-effective audit solutions throughout the UK.

Kaiser Nouman Nathan LLP - Nationwide UK Audit Services

Established in 2011, Kaiser Nouman Nathan LLP is a London-based audit firm serving clients across the UK and internationally. The firm focuses on entrepreneurs, owner-managed businesses, and not-for-profit organisations.

Its services include audit, accountancy, and tax planning, delivered with a strong commercial and strategic focus. The firm is known for offering practical financial solutions aligned with business growth.

Pocknells LLP - Mid-Essex Audit Specialists

Pocknells LLP is a long-established top 10 audit firm based in South Woodham Ferrers, Essex. Recognised by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and auditors in the UK, the firm supports clients across a wide range of industries.

Pocknells provides audit, accounts preparation, taxation, and business support services, with a reputation for reliable advice and strong client relationships.

Michael Harwood & Co Chartered Accountants - Partner-Led UK Auditors

Based in Warwick, Michael Harwood & Co Chartered Accountants has over 25 years of experience delivering partner-led audit and accounting services across the UK.

Their services include statutory audits, management accounts, tax compliance, bookkeeping, budgeting, forecasting, and business planning. The firm is particularly popular with entrepreneurs and growing businesses seeking hands-on support.

Nicholas Peters & Co Ltd - Specialist Auditors for Property & Charities

Nicholas Peters & Co Ltd is a London-based auditing and accounting firm supporting startups, property investors, charities, and international clients, including Greek and Cypriot businesses.

Their services cover audits, accounts preparation, tax planning, management accounts, bookkeeping, and business advisory, helping clients scale with confidence.

J Nelson & Co - Audit & Tax Services for SMEs

With over 30 years of experience, J Nelson & Co is a trusted UK audit firm providing full-service accounting and auditing support to SMEs and professionals.

The firm uses modern accounting and audit software to deliver audits, VAT advice, management accounts, CIS support, and tax services across multiple industries.

PMK & Associates LLP - Auditors for Growing UK Businesses

PMK & Associates LLP is a UK-based audit firm serving small and medium-sized businesses across the UK. The firm offers audit, accounting, tax planning, payroll, finance outsourcing, and M&A advisory.

Its strategic approach makes PMK & Associates a strong choice for businesses looking to scale and diversify.

EHK Consulting Ltd - SME Auditors in London

EHK Consulting Ltd works closely with SMEs across the UK, offering audit, bookkeeping, tax planning, and business advisory services.

Based in London, the firm supports sole traders, limited companies, and public organisations across diverse sectors.

La'Dunni & Co - Chartered Certified Auditors

La'Dunni & Co is a UK-based firm of chartered certified accountants and registered auditors supporting businesses of all sizes.

The firm specialises in audit, accounting, taxation, and management advisory services, helping businesses build credibility and maintain strong financial governance.

Rouse Chartered Accountants - Award-Winning UK Auditors

Rouse Chartered Accountants is an award-winning UK firm offering audit, tax, assurance, and advisory services.

They work with private clients, owner-managed businesses, charities, and corporate groups, delivering tailored solutions across multiple industries.

RPG Crouch Chapman - Mid-Tier UK Audit Firm

RPG Crouch Chapman provides audit, accounting, tax investigations, and advisory services to business owners and private clients.

The firm positions itself as a strong mid-tier alternative, delivering high-quality audit services with a personalised approach.

Shipleys LLP - Specialist Auditors in London

Shipleys LLP is a London-based audit firm offering accounting, audit, tax, and specialist advisory services.

With experience across multiple sectors, the firm is known for meeting complex client requirements with clarity and precision.

MMBA Accountants - Multi-Office UK Auditors

Founded in 2009, MMBA Accountants operates from offices in London, Preston, Cambridge, and Luton.

The firm provides audit, tax, and advisory services to businesses across the UK, with a reputation for results-driven and specialist support.

Arnold Hill & Co LLP - Over 100 Years of Audit Expertise

Arnold Hill & Co LLP is one of the UK’s longest-established audit firms, serving clients for over a century.

The firm offers audit and accounting services to both businesses and individuals, combining tradition with a proactive, modern approach.

M Zaidi & Co - Cost-Effective Auditors in London

With more than 50 years of experience, M Zaidi & Co provides audit, assurance, taxation, and accounting services to businesses across London and the UK.

The firm is known for delivering high-value solutions at competitive fees.

Focus Somar Accountants - International Audit Expertise

Focus Somar Accountants, established in 2013, offers statutory audits, bookkeeping, accounting, and tax services in London and across the UK.

The firm also supports international businesses, making it suitable for companies with cross-border operations.

Mouktaris & Co - Trusted UK Auditors Since 1979

Mouktaris & Co has been providing audit, tax, and advisory services since 1979.

The firm advises entrepreneurs and owner-managed businesses, with a strong focus on tax efficiency and financial strategy.

PKF - Auditors for Large & Complex UK Businesses

PKF is a leading London-based audit firm serving large, high-profile, and complex organisations.

The firm delivers audit, tax, and advisory services across diverse sectors, simplifying regulatory complexity for clients.

Charterhouse - Affordable Auditors in Harrow

Charterhouse is a Harrow-based firm of auditors and accountants established over 50 years ago.

The firm serves a diverse client base and is known for delivering reliable audit and accounting services at competitive prices.

Big 4 Audit Firm and Auditors in the UK

Deloitte - One of the Leading Auditors in the UK

Deloitte is widely regarded as one of the top auditors in the UK and a global leader in audit and assurance services. As part of the Big Four, Deloitte UK works with businesses ranging from fast-growing companies to large multinational organisations.

The firm provides statutory audits, assurance, tax, and advisory services, helping UK businesses meet regulatory requirements while gaining valuable financial insights. Deloitte’s audit methodology leverages data analytics, automation, and AI to enable more efficient audits and deeper visibility into financial performance.

With extensive experience across industries such as technology, healthcare, energy, and retail, Deloitte remains a first choice for companies seeking reliable and future-focused audit services in the UK.

PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) - Trusted UK Audit Specialists

PwC is one of the most established auditors in the UK, serving a broad client base that includes startups, SMEs, and FTSE 100 companies. Known for its rigorous audit standards, PwC combines compliance with strategic insight to support informed decision-making.

PwC’s UK audit services go beyond statutory requirements, offering businesses clarity around financial risks, internal controls, and governance. The firm also has strong capabilities in tax planning, consulting, and wealth management, making it a well-rounded choice for growing organisations.

Its deep industry expertise across retail, capital markets, technology, and hospitality positions PwC as a trusted audit firm for businesses operating in competitive UK markets.

EY (Ernst & Young) - Innovative Auditors in the UK

EY is a leading audit firm in the UK, providing audit, tax, and advisory services to organisations across multiple sectors. With operations in over 150 countries, EY combines global experience with strong local UK knowledge.

The firm is well known for its focus on digital audits, sustainability, and risk management. By integrating automation and emerging technologies such as blockchain, EY delivers modern audit solutions suited to today’s regulatory environment.

Businesses in sectors like financial services, energy, healthcare, and technology often choose EY for its forward-looking approach and strong emphasis on compliance, transparency, and long-term value creation.

KPMG - Established UK Auditors with Sector Expertise

KPMG is one of the most respected auditors in the UK and a core member of the Big Four accounting firms. It provides audit, tax, and advisory services to private companies, public sector organisations, and non-profits.

KPMG has a particularly strong presence in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) auditing, public sector advisory, and regulatory compliance. Its audit approach is highly data-driven, helping businesses improve controls, manage risk, and meet UK reporting standards.

Despite being slightly smaller in revenue than some competitors, KPMG remains a preferred audit firm in the UK for organisations seeking structured audits and strategic insight.

Cost of Hiring Auditors in London and the UK

The cost of hiring auditors in the UK varies depending on business size, location, complexity, and regulatory requirements. London-based auditors generally charge higher fees due to operating costs and the complexity of clients, while firms outside London may offer more competitive pricing.

Below is a realistic breakdown of audit fees in London and across the UK.

Audit Fees in the UK: Pricing Overview

Why Audit Costs Vary in London vs the Rest of the UK

Hiring auditors in London typically costs more than in other parts of the UK. This is mainly due to higher staffing and operating costs. Businesses operating in finance, technology, property, or international trade often require more thorough audit procedures, which increase fees.

Outside London, many UK audit firms offer similar technical expertise at lower rates, making them attractive for SMEs and owner-managed businesses seeking value without compromising compliance.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Hiring Auditors in the UK

Several factors influence audit fees in the UK, including:

• Company turnover and size
• Number of transactions and employees
• Quality of bookkeeping and internal controls
• Industry regulations (e.g. FCA, charities, construction, property)
• Group or subsidiary structures
• Location (London vs regional UK firms)
• Group reporting or compliance with group audit instructions
• Complex or specialised structure or workflows
• Number of inventory count locations

Well-prepared financial records and clear internal processes can significantly reduce audit time and overall cost.

Is Hiring a UK Auditor Worth the Cost?

For businesses required to undergo a statutory audit, hiring an experienced UK auditor is essential for legal compliance. Beyond compliance, a good auditor can also highlight financial risks, improve controls, and provide insights that support business growth.

Many businesses find that working with the right auditors in the UK delivers long-term value that outweighs the initial cost.

London vs Regional Auditors in the UK: A Practical Comparison

Businesses often debate whether to hire auditors in London or work with a regional UK audit firm. Both options have advantages, depending on business size, complexity, and budget.

Comparison: London Auditors vs Regional UK Auditors

Which Is Right for Your Business?

• Choose London auditors if your business is local, large, regulated, investor-backed, or operates internationally.
• Choose regional UK auditors if you are an SME, charity, or owner-managed business looking for compliance, clarity, and better value.

Many UK businesses now work with regional auditors who deliver London-level expertise at more competitive fees.

FAQs: Hiring Auditors in London and the UK

How much does it cost to hire auditors in London?

Audit fees in London typically start from £3,000 for small companies and can exceed £50,000 for large or group audits, depending on complexity and regulatory requirements. London auditors usually charge 10% - 15% more than regional UK firms.

Are regional auditors cheaper than London auditors?

Yes. Regional auditors in the UK generally offer lower fees due to reduced overheads, while still meeting statutory audit standards. This makes them a popular choice for SMEs and growing businesses.

Do I legally need an auditor in the UK?

As a small non-listed company, you need a statutory audit in the UK if your company exceeds two of the following thresholds:

• Turnover over £15 million
• Assets over £7.5 million
• More than 50 employees

Certain charities, listed companies, and regulated businesses also require audits regardless of size.

Can a UK auditor work with my business if they are not local?

Yes. Most UK auditors work nationwide and remotely. Location rarely affects audit quality, provided the firm is properly authorised and experienced in your sector.

How long does a UK statutory audit take?

A typical statutory audit for a small or medium-sized business takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on record quality and business complexity.

How can I reduce my audit costs?

You can lower audit fees by maintaining accurate bookkeeping, preparing records in advance, responding promptly to auditor queries, and working with auditors experienced in your industry.

Get Audit Quotes from Trusted UK Auditors

Finding the right auditors in the UK doesn’t have to be complicated.

We help businesses connect with trusted, FCA-compliant and authorised audit firms across London, the UK, and globally. Whether you need a statutory audit, charity audit, or specialist compliance support, we will find auditors that fit your budget and business needs.

Why Request Audit Quotes Through Us?

• Compare multiple UK audit firms
• Save time and reduce costs
• Access London and regional auditors
• No obligation, no hidden fees
• Suitable for SMEs, charities, and growing businesses

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A top-tier audit firm plays a critical role in every business, especially seeking trust from shareholders and investors. You require a knowledgeable and reliable firm ready to assist you with audit needs and handle all responsibilities professionally. Some of these firms also provide practical business advice, accounting services, and tax consultations.

Choosing an audit firm based on these guidelines will reduce your chance of making a poor decision for your business.