Self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) auditors are finding themselves in legal trouble due to inadequate documentation of their conclusions regarding asset valuations in their audit files. According to a senior industry professional, the issue isn’t the accuracy of the valuations but rather the lack of proper documentation to substantiate these valuations.
Self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) auditors are finding themselves in legal trouble due to inadequate documentation of their conclusions regarding asset valuations in their audit files. According to a senior industry professional, the issue isn’t the accuracy of the valuations but rather the lack of proper documentation to substantiate these valuations.
The Documentation Gap
Deanne Firth, director of Tactical Super, highlighted this critical issue during a recent Institute of Financial Professionals Australia webinar. She recounted a conversation with an SMSF lawyer who defends auditors against the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). The lawyer noted that while auditors could clearly explain their reasoning and had done the necessary work, this information was often not documented in the audit files.
This lack of documentation is what trips up auditors during ATO audits of SMSFs. Firth emphasized that while auditors might have substantiated their valuations correctly, the absence of documented evidence to support these valuations leads to legal challenges. She stated,
“There are many different things they could put in to substantiate that evidence, but it’s just not being put on file.”
The Need for Evidence
The Need for Objective and Supportable Evidence. Firth stressed the necessity for both accountants and auditors to understand the requirement for objective and supportable evidence when valuing assets in SMSFs. She explained that if an expert valuation is necessary for property but not available, auditors need evidence of how the market valuation was substantiated by the directors or trustees. This includes supportable data on which they relied.
“It can’t just be an emotion or a thought bubble, it must be objective,” Firth noted.
Common Shortcomings
Common Shortcomings in Audit Documentation. Firth pointed out that many auditors fall short in detailing their thought processes behind basic conclusions. While a lot of auditors perform the necessary work, they document very little of it. This gap can lead to significant issues during regulatory reviews or legal proceedings. Proper documentation is not just a formality but a critical part of the auditing process that ensures transparency and accountability.
Best Practices for SMSF Auditors
To avoid these pitfalls, SMSF auditors should adopt several best practices:
- Thorough Documentation: Ensure all conclusions and valuations are thoroughly documented in the audit file. This includes the rationale behind decisions, data sources, and the methodologies used.
- Objective Evidence: Gather and document objective and supportable evidence for all asset valuations. This might include market data, independent valuations, and other relevant financial information.
- Regular Training: Auditors should receive regular training on the latest standards and requirements for SMSF audits to ensure compliance with ATO and ASIC guidelines.
- Peer Reviews: Implement peer reviews of audit files to identify any documentation gaps and ensure all necessary information is recorded.
- Use of Technology: Utilise advanced audit software that can help streamline the documentation process and ensure all critical information is captured accurately.
Conclusion
The legal challenges faced by SMSF auditors highlight a critical need for meticulous documentation of asset valuations. While the work done by auditors might be accurate and thorough, failing to document this work can lead to significant legal and regulatory issues. By adopting best practices and focusing on thorough documentation, SMSF auditors can ensure their valuations are not only accurate but also fully substantiated, thus avoiding potential pitfalls.
At Property Pricer, we understand the importance of detailed documentation and objective evidence in property valuations. Our comprehensive valuation reports are designed to provide clear, thorough, and supportable data, helping you meet the stringent requirements of SMSF audits. By using our advanced property pricing tool, you can ensure that every valuation is backed by robust documentation, reducing the risk of legal complications and enhancing the credibility of your audit work.
Investing in proper documentation practices is not just about compliance; it’s about delivering high-quality, transparent, and reliable valuation services. Property Pricer is committed to supporting SMSF auditors and accountants with the tools and resources needed to achieve excellence in their field. Ensure your next audit is backed by the best in property valuation technology with Property Pricer.