TYPES OF AUDITS


Audits can be classified in two broad ways according to: -

 a) Terms of engagements i.e. nature of work done

b) Method of approach of work done.

a) Terms of engagement-nature of work done.

Statutory audits

These are carried out as per the requirements of the various statutes e.g. the Companies Act cap 486 requires that all public limited companies must have their financial statements subjected to an independent audit. The objectives of the audit are to express an opinion as to whether the balance sheet and the profit and loss account show a true and fair view. The rights and duties of the auditor are laid out in the Companies Act or the relevant statute. The powers of appointment of the auditor are vested on the shareholders.

Private audits

These are audits that are not governed by the Act. These are performed by an independent auditor because the owners, members or other interested parties require them and not because the law requires them to be carried out. Private audits are carried out for organisations such as NGOs, partnerships, clubs and charities among others. The appointment of the auditor is usually carried out as a private contract between the auditor and the relevant stakeholder. The scope and objective of the work is determined by the agreed terms between the auditor and the client. The auditors’ rights and duties are also laid out in the contract.