How far in advance do they notify you of an impending audit, and provide you with an audit schedule. This will help you prepare for the audit easily if they provide at least 6 weeks.
How many hours per day is planned during an audit? Some companies consider a day in-plant as 6 hours saying the other time is ‘report writing’ time.
Ask the registrar to explain the details of their billing.
Are there any extra charges and tie this down in a written quote. Are travel and lodging expenses covered by the bid? Rental car(s)? There are stories of some companies charging extra for each non-conformance report.
What quality system does the registrar have in place? Request a copy of their Quality Manual.
Will they provide you with their internal audit schedule and results of audits and corrective and preventative action?
