Can accountants entitled to hold onto my accounts?

by **tk421** on Thu Aug 04, 2011 10:12 pm

I'm hoping someone can help me with my query. That topic has already been here however I have slightly different situation.
I've finished co-operation with my "so called" accountant/tax adviser, because his advise was unprofessional and recently I asked him to prepare papers so I could apply for a loan. To be clear I have already paid him money in advance (which he said would cover all the costs) for preparing them giving all documents he asked for. He prepared some documents which were refused by bank and other financial institution because they were badly done. I asked him to do them once again. He has been lingering for a month to do them. My patience has ended, because I need the documents straight away, and I told him today that I have changed my accountant and would like all the papers to be returned to me. He has informed me that that he will issue additional costs although he has done nothing so far! He is refusing to let me have my books back until I've fully settled my accounts which he has made them up today.
Is this a normal situation? How can I have my all books and papers back? Recently I have also found out that he is a bit "doggy" and there is more clients like me who experienced problems with him.
Please advise. Thanks.

by **section 44** on Tue Dec 06, 2011 3:09 pm

What does your agreement (engagement letter, terms of business etc) with your accountant/tax adviser provide with regards to fees and records?

The records may belong to you but he may have a lien over them if there are unpaid fees.