Bookkeeper problems

[Alext333]

Hi,

We have employed a bookkeeper who has consistently promised and failed to get our accounts ready to file with our accountant.

We are now risking being struck off the Company House Register. Can I require a copy of her insurance policy? What else might I do here?

Thanks

 

[john1989]

Up until this point you have not suffered a loss so not sure what you intend to claim.

You could make a complaint to her professional body if she belongs to one.

Perhaps it would be best to ask for all records back and ask the accountant to do the bookkeeping to ensure the deadline is met. Or engage another bookkeeper who can fit you in quickly.

 

[UK Contractor Accountant]

You wont be struck off the Company House Registrer - just need to object the proposed Strike Off and it will be suspended.

There will of course be fines imposed on accounts filed late.

 

[Alext333]

Thanks for the replies. I'm unsure if we are able to make alternative arrangement in time. Does anyone know can we request a copy of the insurance policy?

 

[UK Contractor Accountant]

Did you give her a deadline date to complete the book-keeping records ready for the year end accounts completion?

 

[Alext333]

The job was a.s.a.p and she then gave us deadline by which she would complete the work. In fact shes even told us that the accounts have been filed with the accountant but they haven't.

 

[UK Contractor Accountant]

Have you paid her?

How late are the accounts at Companies House - 1 month late the fine is £150 then it goes up to £375 for 1-3 months late.

 

[Alext333]

No payment has been requested

 

[john1989]

She's telling you the accountant has the bookkeeping records. Are you 100% sure that it the accountant has not received them?

 

[kevin.doran]

I doubt you'll get anywhere trying to claim/sue. Either get her to do the work now and then move on or move on immediately.

Speak to your accountant to see what they advise - you need that relationship to work so that would be my starting point.

 

[Newchodge]

Thanks for the replies. I'm unsure if we are able to make alternative arrangement in time. Does anyone know can we request a copy of the insurance policy?

The insurance policy is none of your business. Your contract is with the book keeper. If they have failed to fulfill their contract or have acted negligently or whatever, your claim is against the bookkeeper. If they have insurance, they can notify their insurer who will take over the claim.

 

[Alext333]

If you were employing a Solicitor you have a right to see his insurance. Why wouldn't it be the same for bookkeepers?

 

[Energise Accounting]

I think the op is going to try and make a claim against the bookkeeper. however, if no engagement letters or money has changed hands the claim will be unsuccessful. your best bet is to take your books to your accountant and let them sort it out for this year. and then look for a new bookkeeper.

 

[Alext333]

I'm not keen to make a claim against anyone. But I'm more than prepared to if needed. We have written agreements that the work would be completed, why do you think you have to make a payment for bad service before you have any legal remedy?

 

[Newchodge]

If you were employing a Solicitor you have a right to see his insurance. Why wouldn't it be the same for bookkeepers?

Have you? In agreeing to engage a bookkeeper you might properly ask to see proof that they have legal liability insurance. A solciitor must have legal liability insurance, but a bookkeeper doesn't have to.

 

[Alext333]

The bookkepper in question is a member of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers, so they do have a professional indemnity insurance obligation under their regulations.

 

[Newchodge]

OK, then they have insurance. What are you trying to achieve by seeing it?

 

[Alext333]

There are other potential consideration not mentioned here.

 

[Bob]

Hi,

We have employed a bookkeeper who has consistently promised and failed to get our accounts ready to file with our accountant.

We are now risking being struck off the Company House Register. Can I require a copy of her insurance policy? What else might I do here?

Thanks

Yes, you can ask for a copy of her insurance policy but on the other hand there is nothing to compel her to show it to you.
If you haven't paid her anything and she hasn't done anything, put it behind you. Collect the books and give them to someone else to do.
If you want to make a claim against her, you will have to go through the courts and you know how long that takes

 

[Energise Accounting]

I think you are best to change your bookkeeper and get all the work done.