Why ESG reporting pre-assurance is a smart move before an external review

New reporting requirements such as CSRD, IFRS S1 and S2, GRI and TCFD are raising expectations around the quality and reliability of ESG disclosures. As external assurance becomes more common, companies are expected to present well-prepared, well-documented reports based on reliable data and processes.

One way to prepare is through ESG reporting pre-assurance. Reporting pre-assurance is a review phase that takes place before formal assurance begins. It helps identify potential issues early, reduce last-minute fixes and build confidence in the quality of your disclosures.

While not required, this preparation can make the assurance process smoother and more efficient – and help avoid compliance setbacks or reputational risks.

Why pre-assurance is a smart move

Assurance providers evaluate ESG reports against defined criteria, often focusing on accuracy, completeness and the strength of underlying systems. Companies that don’t assess their reporting processes in advance may face unexpected gaps, inconsistent data or misalignment with assurance expectations. Pre-assurance helps address these issues early and contributes to a smoother, more efficient review process.

Types of pre-assurance activities

Preparing for external assurance involves several steps, each designed to help ensure your ESG report is well-structured, based on reliable data and aligned with what assurance providers typically expect.

Gap analysis

A gap analysis helps identify areas for improvement before the formal assurance process begins. While a report may appear complete, this review often highlights missing data, inconsistent collection methods or weak controls. By pinpointing these issues early, companies can resolve them before assurance providers step in – reducing the risk of delays or complications. A gap analysis is typically narrower in scope and focuses on identifying gaps, not testing full compliance.

Pre-audits

A pre-audit is a broader assessment that simulates aspects of the assurance process. It involves a detailed review of reporting practices, governance structures and supporting documentation to check whether they meet the expectations of assurance providers. Pre-audits are often used to test how close an organisation is to being ready for assurance. A pre-audit goes further than a gap analysis by also evaluating whether existing measures would likely hold up during external review.

Training

Assurance readiness isn’t just about data – it also involves people. Training equips audit committees, board members and reporting teams with the knowledge they need to play their part. This includes understanding their responsibilities, preparing documentation and responding to assurance-related questions. Without clear roles and proper preparation, companies may struggle to meet governance and oversight expectations during the assurance process.

These activities help companies avoid last-minute surprises and give assurance providers a clearer, more structured set of disclosures to review.

The benefits of pre-assurance

Companies that invest in pre-assurance gain several advantages, making the assurance process more efficient and reducing the risk of complications.

Fewer delays

Addressing issues early prevents disruptions during the assurance process. If gaps are identified too late, organisations may struggle to make the necessary corrections, leading to extended timelines and potential compliance issues.

Better compliance

Pre-assurance helps companies spot gaps early and align their reports with the relevant assurance criteria. This reduces the risk of missing required disclosures and helps avoid issues during external review.

Stronger governance

Preparing internal teams improves oversight and accountability. Pre-assurance ensures that key decision-makers, including the audit committee and board members, are actively involved in reviewing sustainability disclosures. This involvement strengthens internal governance and makes it easier to manage assurance requirements.

More confidence for stakeholders

Reliable reporting enhances trust with investors, regulators and other key audiences. When companies demonstrate that their reports have been thoroughly reviewed and prepared for assurance, they clearly communicate that their ESG data is accurate and credible. This can improve relationships with stakeholders and contribute to a stronger reputation.

What happens when companies skip pre-assurance

Skipping pre-assurance can lead to various challenges, many of which can delay or complicate the assurance process.

Assurance firms may find gaps that delay approval

When companies submit their sustainability reports without conducting a proper review, assurance providers may identify missing data, inconsistencies or other issues that need to be corrected. Addressing these problems during the assurance stage can be time-consuming and costly, and it is often too late to fix the issues in time to meet reporting deadlines.

Reporting teams may struggle to respond to assurance requirements efficiently

Without pre-assurance, organisations often get overwhelmed when assurance providers request additional information or clarification. This can slow down the process and create unnecessary pressure on reporting teams.

Audit committees may not be adequately prepared for their oversight role

Insufficient preparation means that key stakeholders may not fully understand their responsibilities in the assurance process. This can lead to poor decision-making, governance gaps and an overall lack of readiness.

Regulators or stakeholders may question the credibility of sustainability disclosures

If a company’s reporting lacks transparency or appears inconsistent, it may raise concerns about data accuracy. This can lead to increased scrutiny, reputational damage and even regulatory intervention.

These risks highlight why early preparation is not just beneficial but necessary.

Conclusion

As external assurance of ESG reports becomes more common, the real work starts well before the audit. Strengthening internal systems, tightening governance and spotting reporting gaps early can prevent last-minute fixes and costly delays. Whether it's running a gap analysis, holding a pre-audit or investing in training, preparation sets the tone for a smoother, more confident assurance process.

Contact Speeki to see how we can help you prepare for ESG reporting assurance (as long as we are not the assurance provider).