BUSINESSES in Worcester-shire are being warned to prepare for inspection by HM Revenue and Customs Experts say the consequences of these spot checks could cost thousands of pounds in both tax and professional fees and last for several years.

The problem has prompted Droitwich-based chartered accountants Ormerod Rutter to set up a dedicated team of tax professionals to help both companies and individuals when the tax man calls.

Anthony Middleton, tax investigation manager, said: "Tax investigations can be quite random and can be extremely difficult to deal with." He said that following the introduction of self-assessment, all businesses and people have become potential targets for an investigation. The tax investigation service offered by Ormerod Rutter is designed to prevent the investigation process becoming an ordeal. A team of professionals from the company will manage the enquiry from start to finish, ensuring deadlines are met.