Authorised auditor – more than a legal requirement, a strategic asset
An authorised auditor offers far more value to you as a business owner than simply reviewing numbers. An auditor can be seen as a strategic partner who helps you identify risks, streamline processes, and create the right conditions for sustainable growth. With the right auditor, you gain insights that can strengthen liquidity, improve profitability, and provide a more reliable basis for decision‑making. In this article, we outline what to consider when choosing an auditor and explain why authorisation matters.
Hiring an authorised auditor is not just about having your figures checked - it’s about choosing a partner who genuinely cares about your organisation. An auditor works in teams with other specialists, and through this collaboration you can gain access to expertise in areas such as tax, accounting, and transactions. Engagement is what makes a real difference. When high competence is combined with genuine interest, the audit becomes a strategic tool rather than a cost item, giving you a long‑term partner who can contribute to your organisation’s development.
An authorised auditor can contribute by providing:
- Increased credibility and transparency
- Stronger internal controls and risk management
- Reliable and relevant decision‑making support for the board
- Strengthened trust from banks, investors, and business partners
- Professional advice without compromising independence
Authorisation – essential for quality and assurance
Choosing an auditor is a strategic decision that affects credibility, security, and future development — whether it concerns a company, a non‑profit organisation, or a housing association. In Sweden, audits are regulated by law for some entities and by statutes for others. Regardless of the category, it is the auditor’s competence that determines how much value you receive. That is why choosing an authorised auditor is crucial.
Choosing an auditor is a strategic decision that affects credibility, security, and future development — whether it concerns a company, a non‑profit organisation, or a housing association. In Sweden, audits are regulated by law for some entities and by statutes for others. Regardless of the category, it is the auditor’s competence that determines how much value you receive. That is why choosing an authorised auditor is crucial.
Selecting an authorised auditor is your guarantee that the audit will be carried out in accordance with Swedish law and international standards. It also means you gain an adviser who provides confidence to banks, investors, and authorities. An authorised auditor must also safeguard their independence — both actual and perceived — and may not, for example, make decisions on behalf of the company or participate in its management. However, they can use their expertise to analyse, challenge, and present different alternatives and their implications.
For housing associations and other types of associations, both the statutes and certain size criteria determine whether an authorised auditor is required. Here, it is important that the board and the annual general meeting understand the difference and appreciate the quality and assurance that an authorised auditor provides.
The difference between the titles “Authorised Auditor” and “Auditor”
The title Authorised Auditor is protected and requires:
- Passing the auditor’s examination administered by the Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors (SIA)
- University studies with at least a bachelor’s degree
- Documented practical experience
- Ongoing supervision and quality control
- Fulfilment of requirements regarding integrity and suitability
Auditor (non‑protected title):
- Can be used by anyone
- Requires no formal education or registration
The risks of choosing the wrong auditor
A non‑authorised auditor may cost less, but comes with significantly higher risks. Without formal competence and supervision, the likelihood of incorrect reporting, weak controls, loss of trust, and — in the worst case — legal consequences increases.
A non‑authorised auditor may cost less, but comes with significantly higher risks. Without formal competence and supervision, the likelihood of incorrect reporting, weak controls, loss of trust, and — in the worst case — legal consequences increases.
What to consider when choosing an auditor
- Verify registration with the Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors
- Choose someone with industry knowledge and experience from similar organisations
- View the auditor as a long‑term partner — not just a cost
Azets – quality and assurance under the supervision of the inspectorate of auditors
Azets Revision & Rådgivning is a registered audit firm under the supervision of the Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors. Our authorised auditors have passed the auditor’s examination and work according to a methodology that identifies risks early, with a particular focus on creating added value and benefits for the organisation.
Azets Revision & Rådgivning is a registered audit firm under the supervision of the Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors. Our authorised auditors have passed the auditor’s examination and work according to a methodology that identifies risks early, with a particular focus on creating added value and benefits for the organisation.
At Azets, you receive assurance, quality, and an adviser who actively contributes to your success. Read more about our audit services here.
