AUD Specialists · Updated November 2026
The Client Used a Valuation Expert. Can the Auditor Just Accept the Number?
Specialist expertise helps the audit, but the auditor still evaluates whether the resulting evidence is sufficient and appropriate.
Management specialist
Management may use actuaries, valuation experts, engineers, or appraisers to develop amounts or assertions.
Auditor specialist
The auditor may use a specialist to help evaluate a complex area such as valuation or actuarial assumptions.
Competence and capability
The auditor considers whether the specialist has appropriate expertise and whether the work is suitable for the audit purpose.
Objectivity
A specialist connected to management can present different objectivity considerations than an independent external specialist.
The takeaway
Specialists contribute expertise. They do not take over the auditor's responsibility for the audit conclusion.
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FAQ
Can the auditor use an actuary?
Yes.
Does specialist involvement eliminate auditor responsibility?
No.
Does the auditor evaluate management specialist work?
Yes.