Fundamental ethical principles requires that a CA firm should not accept an audit assignment in the following circumstances because a self-interest threat might be created:

1. Where the total gross annual professional fees from the audit client and its related entities exceed 15% of the total fees of the CA firm for two consecutive years. Few exceptions have been provided to this rule.

2. Ceiling on non-audit fees: Aggregate remuneration for non-audit work should not exceed the aggregate of fee payable for carrying out the statutory audit.

3. Quoting a fee lower than another accountant is not in itself unethical. However, the level of fees quoted should not be so low that it creates a threat to compliance with the principle of professional competence.

4. The fees which are based on a percentage of profits or which are contingent upon the findings, or results of such work, is not allowed except in cases which are permitted under Regulation 192 of The Chartered Accountants Regulations, 1988, e.g. in the case of services related to cost optimization, the fees may be based on a percentage of the benefit derived.

5. It is generally expected that the firm will require payment of such fees before such audit report is issued. The requirements and application material set out in Section 511 of Code of Ethics, with respect to loans and guarantees, might also apply to situations where such unpaid fees exist.

6.  A firm, network firm or an audit team member shall not accept gifts and hospitality from an audit client, unless the value is trivial and inconsequential.