Fixed Costs

We are unusual in that we do not keep time sheets and generally do not charge by the hour or 6 minute unit.

Clients want and deserve to know in advance how much our charges will be.

At our first meeting (which is free, of course) we will listen to what you want us to do. We have a standard price list and from this we will calculate the fee in front of you – we do not believe money and our costs should be hedged in any embarrassment. We try to be as upfront as possible. To see an example of our fixed fees click here.

We believe the benefits are:-

1) You can feel relaxed about ringing us up and asking for help, information etc., knowing it is free.

2) We can approach an assignment not for ever trying to cut corners but to extract as much benefit for you from our work as possible.

3) Our experience is that by listening to you, we can find other ways to help you which you may not have already thought of.

Where Fixed Fees will Not Work

There is some work which we cannot anticipate at the start how long it will take and, therefore, cannot give you a fixed cost, but even here, we make sure that there are no nasty surprises.

We find the best way forward is to give you an initial estimate of the cost for the assignment and then agree to warn you when we are approaching a predetermined limit.

At all times you are in the “driving seat” and know exactly where you stand.

What We Expect from You

1) Reliability

Fixed fees depend on you being reliable, i.e. answering queries quickly, and keeping us informed of what is happening, sending in your accounts within a few weeks of your year end and making sure they are up to the agreed standard.

2) Honesty

“Nuff said”

3) Politeness, Appreciation and Good Manners

We want “nice” clients. We have regular staff meetings and one item on the agenda is “which client should we sack”. This is not because clients are unprofitable or messy but more if they are rude, abrupt and generally unpleasant to deal with. We now have lovely clients.

4) Pay your Bills on Time

We expect all new clients to pay by a monthly direct debit their expected fees spread over the year. This saves the nasty shock at the end of the year as all or the majority of your costs will be covered by this.

All other work is paid within 30 days.