Independent audits
Every certified member is audited by an accredited auditor who doesn’t work for WBWO. You get a report you can share with buyers, banks and insurers, and the result appears on your public record.
What you get
- An audit matched to your size: a remote foundation check for startups, a remote audit for small and mid-sized businesses, and an on-site audit for large companies
- A written report with findings and anything you need to fix
- The result and audit date on your public record
- A fresh audit every year, so the result stays meaningful
How it works
We assign an auditor
From our panel of accredited auditors, with no ties to your business, owners or direct competitors.
You prepare
Your auditor tells you what they’ll review and books a time that suits you.
The audit
They review your registration, ownership, accounts, tax filings and employment records, and talk with you about how the business runs.
The report
You get a written report within 10 working days. If something needs fixing, you get time to fix it before any decision.
The decision
WBWO’s certification committee decides, not the auditor and not our membership team.
What the audit covers
- Legal registration and good standing
- Who owns and controls the business
- Financial health and solvency
- Tax registration and filings
- Employment contracts, pay and working conditions
- Anti-bribery and sanctions controls, for large companies
Questions
- Who pays for the audit?
- For startups, small and mid-sized businesses, the audit is included in the annual fee. Large companies pay the auditor’s costs, which we agree with you in writing before the audit starts.
- What happens if we don’t pass?
- You’ll be told exactly what fell short. Most issues can be fixed and re-checked within 60 days. If they can’t, you can apply again after six months.
- Can we share the audit report with a bank or buyer?
- Yes. The report belongs to you, and you decide who sees it. We never share it without your written permission.