1. File tax returns on time
Currently, that's within 12 months of the end of the company's accounting period. HMRC has a further 12 months to launch an enquiry.

2. Explain big numbers
Where there's a large amount in the accounts, explain how it's broken down. One example, is "repairs and renewals". Inspectors might be looking for capital expenditure that's wrongly crept in under this heading.

3. Document all payments
Invoices paid by the company should clearly state what was paid for and to whom. Inspectors could be looking for directors who are trying to smuggle extra cash to themselves by paying misleading invoices.

4. Account for directors' loans
Directors could owe money to the company, or be owed money by it, if they've put in loan capital or provided personal equipment. Loan account transactions could have tax implications for both directors and the company.

5. Focus on "benefits in kind"
Directors sometimes fail to distinguish between personal and company expenditure. Paying personal bills from company funds can create a directors' tax liability.

6. Account for share allocations
Recent rule changes may tax shares as income. The company must complete "Form 42", which accounts for all share transactions with employees, including directors.

7. Disclose everything
Volunteer information the tax inspector might need to make a judgement on whether all tax has been paid.