Appointing your accountant is a big decision — and it can have long-term consequences for your business. Whether you are a small business owner, a landlord, or a company director, the accountant you appoint plays a key role in protecting your finances, keeping you compliant, and supporting your long-term growth.
So, what should you look for — and why do qualifications actually matter?
Why Appointing Your Accountant Carefully Matters
Many people are surprised to learn that the term “accountant” is not legally protected in the UK. This means anyone can call themselves an accountant — even without formal qualifications, professional oversight, or insurance.
That creates real risk for you as a client.
A qualified accountant, particularly one holding a recognised practising certificate, is backed by a professional body that enforces standards, ethics, and continued training. They do not just have technical knowledge — they are required to keep it up to date, and to act in your best interests.
What Is an ACCA Practising Certificate — and Why Should You Care?
Aziz Merchant, Principal of Southside Accountants, holds an active ACCA Practising Certificate — Certificate No. 24611904 — valid through to 31 December 2025.
This certificate is not simply a piece of paper. It confirms:
✅ That your accountant is a Chartered Certified Accountant, trained and examined to a global standard.
✅ That they are authorised and regulated by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
✅ That they must carry professional indemnity insurance to protect you in case anything goes wrong.
✅ That they are committed to ongoing training (CPD), ethics, and accountability.
For clients, this means peace of mind. You are not just trusting someone who “does accounts” — you are trusting a certified professional.
You can learn more about ACCA practising certificates from the official website: ACCA – What is a Practising Certificate?
⚠️ What If You Get It Wrong?
Hiring an unqualified or unregulated accountant may seem cheaper or more convenient — but it comes with real consequences:
❌ No requirement to stay current with tax law
❌ No regulatory oversight if something goes wrong
❌ No formal complaints process
❌ No professional insurance
❌ Potential exposure to HMRC penalties or bad advice
Some clients come to us after receiving unexpected tax bills, missed deadlines, or confusing advice from accountants who lacked proper training. Fixing those problems takes time — and costs more than getting it right from the start.
When appointing your accountant, checking for qualifications like an ACCA Practising Certificate is one of the simplest ways to ensure you’re in safe hands.
How an MBA Helps You Beyond the Numbers
Aziz also holds an MBA from the Open University — one of the UK’s most respected distance learning institutions.
This adds an extra layer of value for clients, including:
✅ A broader understanding of how businesses work
✅ Strategic thinking to help with decision-making
✅ Practical insight into marketing, leadership, and growth
✅ The ability to explain financial matters clearly in a business context
As a client, this means you get more than just tax compliance — you get a partner who understands the bigger picture of running a business.
Working With Southside Accountants
We work with clients across Wimbledon, South London, and nationally across the UK. Whether you need help with year-end accounts, payroll, VAT, or tax planning — we are here to support you.
And we do it with professionalism, clarity, and qualifications you can trust.
You can also explore more useful guidance on our Articles page.
