1. Summarize the project on one page
Start with a brief summary indicating the companies involved, the nature of the transaction, the valuation criteria, the related parties, the desired timeline, and the advisors involved.
2. Provide the most recent version of the documents
- articles of incorporation and Kbis;
- draft treaties or resolutions;
- approved annual financial statements;
- recent financial status;
- legal organizational chart before and after the transaction;
- valuation documents;
- supporting documentation for the relevant assets or securities.
3. Document the recovery
A value without an explanation slows down the engagement. Describe the methods used, assumptions, data sources, adjustments, and key sensitivity factors.
4. Report any difficulties right from the start
Litigation, reliance on a single customer, recent losses, low equity, significant debt, assets that are difficult to sell, or disagreements among partners: these factors must be brought to the auditor’s attention.
5. Organize the files
Articles of Incorporation, Kbis certificate, minutes, draft resolutions.
Accounts, trial balances, ledgers, budgets, and financial statements.
Models, expert opinions, comparable data, and assumptions.
Contracts, statements, title deeds, and supporting documents.
FAQ
Can I submit draft documents?
Yes, provided that they are clearly identified and the expected completion date is specified.
Is a trial balance sufficient to replace a financial statement?
Not always. The commissioner may request financial statements, reconciliations, and additional explanations in order to assess the actual situation.
How can I get a reliable calendar?
The schedule becomes reliable once the exact nature of the operation, the scope of the mission, and the availability of parts have been confirmed.