As a world-leading improvement regulator, we supervise and monitor over 12,000 ICAEW firms and insolvency practitioners (IPs), holding them, and all ICAEW members and students, to the high standards of competency and conduct in the profession. Find out what our firms thought of the monitoring review process from our latest survey.
Monitoring is carried out by the Quality Assurance Department (QAD), which is part of Regulation & Conduct (R&C). R&C is responsible for carrying out ICAEW's regulatory and disciplinary roles. These roles are separated from ICAEW’s other activities through internal governance so that we can monitor, support or take steps to ensure change if standards are not met.
After each monitoring review, firms and IPs are asked to complete an anonymous survey, providing feedback on the review process, the quality of interaction and the support provided. The infographic illustrates the results of the responses.
These survey responses are collated and analysed by an independent research agency and we receive a quarterly and annual overview report which we use to support the continuous improvement of our monitoring processes and procedures.
Monitoring reviews ensure and reassure firms/IPs they are meeting the expected requirements of the standards, regulations and the ICAEW Code of Ethics. In turn, we take action where the requirements are not met.
Latest Quality Assurance monitoring feedback
For Q3 2026, we have achieved 100% satisfaction across both main feedback metrics. It is the first time since Q2 2024 that the perfect score for “management of the process” has been reached and the first time since Q1 2023 that a perfect score has been recorded for “interaction with firms” – and to have achieved 100% for both metrics in one quarter is a testament to the professionalism of our reviewers.
- 100% satisfaction with the management of the entire visit process
- 100% satisfaction with the quality of interaction from the whole QAD team.
The three-year average for both metrics is now at 97% - covering the last 12 review periods.
We are delighted that firms consistently report a positive experience of QAD monitoring reviews. It reflects the constructive relationships QAD works to build with firms while providing guidance, support and assistance throughout the review process.
Some quotes from firms that best sum up our firm feedback are below.
The reviewer was exceptional. They were courteous, professional, and knowledgeable. Made the process very satisfying.
The reviewer was brilliant. Very pragmatic and helpful.
The reviewer is a credit to ICAEW.
Monitoring visits are an important part of our commitment to fulfil ICAEW's statutory responsibilities and commitments to oversight regulators. Survey feedback from visits is important to us in our mission to continuously improve our processes and role as an improvement regulator.
Archive
View previous survey results.
