Fees

5. Clients must be made aware that they may be able to obtain the same advice and assistance for free. Registered advisers must not make derogatory assertions about the quality of free advice.

6. Registered advisers must have a proper written fee scale. Clients must be given a copy of the adviser's fee scale on initial contact, and the relevant fee details must also be included in the client care letter.

7. The registered adviser's fee scale must be produced to the Commissioner on his/her request. The scale of fees must clearly reflect the type of work to be done, the ability and experience of the registered person, the time taken and any expenses that may be incurred.

8. The Commissioner must be informed in writing if the registered adviser proposes to change their fee scale at least ten working days before such changes are put into effect.

9. A registered adviser must detail in writing to the client how the fee for their work for that client is to be calculated, including whether it is a fixed fee and whether it includes VAT or other expenses.

10. A registered adviser must not charge for work that has not been undertaken or has been undertaken unnecessarily.

11. A registered adviser must not take unfair advantage of the client by overcharging for work done or to be done for them. They must not charge a fee that is unreasonable given the circumstances of the case.

12. A registered adviser must make clear to the client the costs of any work to be done before it is carried out or the advice is given.

13. A registered adviser must advise the client in writing of any additional work that needs to be undertaken and any additional costs that may be incurred or for which that client may become liable, including professional fees, before the work is undertaken.

14. A registered adviser must notify the client in writing as soon as they become aware that the initial estimate of costs is likely to be exceeded and obtain further authority for this greater expenditure. Agreement to this further expense should be reflected in the client's case notes.