Tax Observatory · – 17 July 2026

A first statutory audit engagement: the steps to start from

TOPIC
Statutory audit — accepting a first engagement and setting up the work

Accepting a first statutory audit engagement calls for an orderly sequence: assessing independence and competence, the engagement letter, understanding the entity and its internal control, planning and materiality, and finally setting up the working papers.

For companies appointing a control body for the first time, this is the moment to get the accounting documentation and the processes ready: a well-organised start reduces both audit findings and costs. The firm advises both auditors taking on a first engagement and the companies being audited.

Summary note by Studio Antolini, based on specialised tax sources. The text does not reproduce the original contributions and does not constitute professional advice.