ACCA Audit and Assurance (F8) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a reason an auditor might decline an appointment?

1. Lack of resources

2. Presence of a valid engagement letter

3. Company's past audit history

4. High level of risk associated with the client

The correct answer is: High level of risk associated with the client

An auditor might decline an appointment due to a high level of risk associated with the client for several reasons. High-risk clients could pose significant challenges to the auditor's ability to conduct an effective audit. If an organization is involved in complex transactions, operates in a volatile industry, has a history of fraud incidents, or shows signs of financial instability, these factors heighten the risks involved in the audit process. When the perceived risk is too high, the auditor may determine that the potential for material misstatements in the financial statements cannot be mitigated sufficiently through normal audit procedures. This concern may stem from both the operational aspects of the business and the inherent risks associated with the specific environment in which the client operates. As a result, accepting the engagement may expose the auditor to undue risk of liability or reputational damage. In contrast, while lack of resources may influence an auditor's capacity to accept an engagement, it does not necessarily indicate a specific risk associated with the client itself. A presence of a valid engagement letter is a standard requirement that confirms the auditor's commitment and does not serve as a basis for declining an appointment. Additionally, a company’s past audit history might inform the auditor’s risk assessment but does not alone justify declining the appointment unless it indicates heightened