Changing your accountant
It may seem obvious, but not all accountants are the same. Anyone can call themselves an 'Accountant', even if they have no qualifications so make sure you choose a 'Chartered Accountant' because they spend a minimum of three years in workplace training and pass rigourous exams before they qualify. Once they qualify, a further two years of post qualification training is required and they continue to be supported and regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) throughout their careers.
It's best if you choose a firm that can demonstrate their experience in dealing with a business of your size as they will be more understanding of the issues and problems that you will face.
Find out about their reputation. Ask to speak to some of their clients and take the time to read testimonial and case studies if they have them.
Check in advance whether the first meeting to discuss their appointment is free of charge, some firms will want to charge for specific advice. Make sure that they have the services you are going to need to develop your business. You could show them your business plan and ask for their comments. If you haven't got a plan, can they offer that service and how much do they charge.
Always ask about who you will be dealing with at the firm and how often you will get access to a partner. It may not be the person that you first meet and you need to know that you are going to get on with this person and feel that you are getting the right level of expertise.