Portergarland.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Portergarland.co.uk presents itself as a professional chartered accountancy firm based in Camberley, Surrey, offering services for both businesses and individuals. The site appears to focus on client care and building relationships, with a clear emphasis on helping clients manage their finances and achieve growth. However, a strict review, especially from an Islamic ethical perspective, necessitates a deeper look at the foundational principles. While the website presents a legitimate business, the core offering of conventional accounting services often involves dealing with interest (riba), which is strictly forbidden in Islam. This fundamental issue makes services that primarily handle conventional financial structures problematic. Therefore, while the firm may be professionally competent, its services are not aligned with Islamic financial principles.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Professionalism: High
• Clarity of Services: Clear, outlines business and personal accounting, and cloud accounting.
• Contact Information: Readily available (phone, email, social media links).
• Client Testimonials/Reviews: Prominently featured links to Google and Trustpilot reviews.
• Blog/Resources: Active blog with relevant financial updates.
• Ethical Compliance (Islamic): Not compliant due to handling of conventional financial systems that inherently involve interest (riba).
• Recommendation: Not recommended for those seeking Sharia-compliant financial services.

For individuals and businesses committed to Islamic finance, conventional accounting firms like Porter Garland, while professionally sound, operate within a system that includes interest-based transactions. This fundamental incompatibility means that engaging their services for standard financial management would not be permissible. The website does not indicate any specialisation in, or even an awareness of, Islamic finance principles, suggesting a conventional approach to accountancy.

Here are some alternatives for those seeking Sharia-compliant financial solutions:

• Islamic Finance Advisory Services

  

  • Key Features: Specialise in Sharia-compliant financial planning, investment, and business structures. Provide guidance on avoiding riba, gharar (excessive uncertainty), and maysir (gambling).
  • Average Price: Varies significantly based on the scope of services; typically consultation-based.
  • Pros: Ensures full compliance with Islamic principles; deep expertise in halal financial products; helps structure businesses ethically.
  • Cons: Fewer mainstream providers; may require more effort to find a suitable expert.

• Halal Investment Platforms

  • Key Features: Offer investment opportunities in Sharia-compliant companies and sectors, often screened by ethical boards. Includes sukuk (Islamic bonds), Islamic equity funds, and ethical real estate.
  • Average Price: Management fees apply, typically a percentage of assets under management (e.g., 0.5% – 1.5%).
  • Pros: Provides ethical wealth growth opportunities; diversified portfolios; transparency in investments.
  • Cons: Investment returns can fluctuate; limited range of assets compared to conventional markets.

• Takaful (Islamic Insurance)

  • Key Features: A cooperative system of insurance where participants contribute to a fund used to support each other against specified risks, avoiding interest and speculative elements.
  • Average Price: Premiums (contributions) vary based on coverage and risk assessment.
  • Pros: Sharia-compliant alternative to conventional insurance; mutual support and shared responsibility; ethical governance.
  • Cons: Fewer providers in the UK compared to conventional insurance; coverage options might be more limited.

• Ethical Business Consulting

  • Key Features: Advises businesses on ethical operations, supply chain management, and sustainable practices, which can align with broader Islamic ethical principles of justice and fairness.
  • Average Price: Project-based or hourly rates, typically ranging from £500 to £5000+ per project.
  • Pros: Helps build a socially responsible and ethical business model; improves brand reputation; long-term sustainability.
  • Cons: Can be costly for small businesses; finding consultants with specific Islamic ethical expertise can be challenging.

• Zakat Calculation and Advisory Services

  • Key Features: Specialised services to help individuals and businesses accurately calculate and distribute Zakat according to Sharia principles, ensuring proper fulfilment of this religious obligation.
  • Average Price: Often free or low-cost services provided by Islamic charities or financial institutions; some advisory firms charge a fee.
  • Pros: Ensures correct Zakat calculation and distribution; supports accurate fulfilment of a pillar of Islam; helps manage wealth effectively.
  • Cons: Availability of certified experts may vary; requires detailed financial records.

• Islamic Wills and Estate Planning Services

  • Key Features: Drafts wills (Wasiyya) and estate plans that comply with both UK law and Islamic inheritance rules (Fara’id), ensuring assets are distributed justly.
  • Average Price: £300 – £800 for a standard Islamic will.
  • Pros: Ensures assets are distributed according to Sharia; provides peace of mind; legally binding under UK law.
  • Cons: Requires specialist legal knowledge; can be complex if assets are diverse or international.

• Halal Savings Accounts

  • Key Features: Savings accounts offered by Islamic banks or conventional banks with Islamic windows, where returns are generated from ethical investments rather than interest. Funds are typically managed on a profit-sharing basis (Mudarabah).
  • Average Price: No direct cost; returns are based on profit shares, which vary.
  • Pros: Provides a Sharia-compliant way to save money; avoids interest; supports ethical investments.
  • Cons: Returns may be lower than conventional interest rates; fewer options available in the market.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Portergarland.co.uk Review & First Look

Based on an initial review of Portergarland.co.uk, the website projects a strong sense of professionalism and expertise within the field of chartered accountancy. The design is clean, navigation is intuitive, and key information is easily accessible. This immediately establishes a perception of trustworthiness and competence, crucial for any service-based business, especially one dealing with sensitive financial matters. The site’s primary objective is clearly to attract both business and individual clients in the Surrey area, highlighting their commitment to client care and tailored solutions.

Website Design and User Experience

The user experience (UX) on Portergarland.co.uk is generally positive. The layout is uncluttered, and the colour scheme is professional, leaning towards corporate blues and greys. This aesthetic contributes to a perception of reliability. Key calls to action, such as “Get in touch” and “Talk to the team,” are strategically placed, making it easy for potential clients to initiate contact. The use of clear headings and concise paragraphs ensures that information is digestible, preventing cognitive overload for visitors.

Transparency and Credibility Indicators

One of the strengths of Portergarland.co.uk is its emphasis on transparency and credibility. The site prominently features direct links to their Google and Trustpilot reviews. This willingness to direct users to third-party review platforms is a significant indicator of confidence in their client satisfaction and service quality. Displaying genuine testimonials further reinforces this, allowing prospective clients to see feedback directly from existing ones. This practice aligns with building trust, a critical factor for professional service firms.

Missing Information for Islamic Compliance

While the website excels in conventional professional presentation, a significant gap exists concerning Islamic ethical considerations. There is no mention of Sharia-compliant services, Islamic finance principles, or any acknowledgement of the prohibition of riba (interest). This is a critical omission for individuals and businesses seeking to conduct their financial affairs according to Islamic principles. For such users, the standard services offered, which implicitly operate within interest-based financial systems, would be unsuitable. This highlights the need for firms to be transparent about their ethical frameworks, especially when targeting a diverse client base.

Portergarland.co.uk Cons

When scrutinising Portergarland.co.uk from an Islamic ethical standpoint, several significant drawbacks emerge. While the firm may be professionally competent in conventional accounting, its operations are inherently incompatible with Islamic financial principles, primarily due to the pervasive involvement with riba (interest). This makes any engagement with their services problematic for those adhering to Sharia. Wardsofkent.co.uk Review

Incompatibility with Islamic Financial Principles

The most substantial con of Portergarland.co.uk, from an Islamic perspective, is its fundamental incompatibility with Sharia. Traditional accounting, as offered, operates within a conventional financial system where interest is a cornerstone. Whether it’s managing business loans, personal mortgages, or investment portfolios, interest is almost always present. Islam explicitly forbids riba (interest) in all its forms, considering it exploitative and unjust.

• Handling of Interest-Based Transactions: Accounting firms routinely deal with interest payments, receipts, and calculations for their clients. Even if the firm itself doesn’t charge interest, providing services that facilitate or manage interest-bearing transactions for clients is impermissible.
• Conventional Loan Structures: Many businesses and individuals rely on conventional bank loans, which are interest-based. Accountants play a role in preparing financial statements and advising on these structures.
• Lack of Sharia-Compliant Alternatives: The website offers no indication of Sharia-compliant financial solutions or an understanding of Islamic banking and finance. This means clients seeking ethical alternatives would not find suitable guidance here.

Lack of Specialisation in Ethical Finance

Portergarland.co.uk positions itself as a general chartered accountancy firm. There is no mention of specialisation in ethical finance, sustainable investing, or, more specifically, Islamic finance. This lack of niche focus means they are unlikely to possess the requisite knowledge or frameworks to guide clients towards Sharia-compliant financial practices.

• No Dedicated Islamic Finance Services: The website does not list any services tailored to Islamic finance, such as Zakat calculation, Sharia-compliant investment advice, or structuring businesses according to Islamic contracts (e.g., Mudarabah, Musharakah).
• General Financial Advice: The advice provided would likely be based on conventional tax laws and financial strategies, which may not align with Islamic principles. For instance, advising on certain tax-efficient investment schemes might lead to involvement in impermissible activities.

Potential for Indirect Involvement in Impermissible Activities

Even if a client intends to minimise their involvement with riba, using a conventional accounting firm means their financial data and advice will still be processed within a framework that implicitly accepts interest. This can lead to indirect involvement in impermissible activities.

• Tax Optimisation: While tax planning is generally permissible, if the strategies involve engaging with interest-based products or structures to reduce tax liabilities, it becomes problematic.
• Auditing and Reporting: Auditing and reporting on financial statements that include interest-bearing assets or liabilities can be seen as validating or facilitating such transactions.

Portergarland.co.uk Alternatives

Given the fundamental incompatibility of conventional accounting services with Islamic financial principles, individuals and businesses seeking Sharia-compliant solutions must look for alternatives. These alternatives focus on ethical finance, avoiding riba (interest), gharar (excessive uncertainty), and maysir (gambling).

Islamic Financial Advisory Firms

Instead of conventional accountants, consider firms specialising in Islamic finance. These advisors understand Sharia principles and can guide individuals and businesses on permissible financial practices. Letcohomes.co.uk Review

• Services Offered: Sharia-compliant business structuring, Zakat consultation, halal investment screening, Islamic wills, and general financial planning aligned with Islamic ethics.
• Key Advantage: Expertise in navigating complex financial situations while ensuring strict adherence to Sharia. They can help avoid pitfalls related to riba and other impermissible elements.
• Finding Them: Search for “Islamic financial advisor UK” or “Sharia-compliant financial planning.” Organisations like the Islamic Finance Council UK (IFC4UK) or individual certified Islamic finance professionals can be good starting points.

Takaful Providers (Islamic Insurance)

For risk management, conventional insurance is replaced by Takaful. Takaful operates on a cooperative model where participants contribute to a fund to cover each other’s losses, avoiding interest and speculation.

• Types of Takaful: Family Takaful (life insurance), General Takaful (property, motor, health), and Business Takaful.
• Mechanism: Funds are invested in Sharia-compliant assets, and any surplus is often distributed back to participants.
• Providers in the UK: While fewer than conventional insurers, a growing number of providers and brokers offer Takaful products. Research specific “Takaful UK” for options.

Halal Investment Platforms

For wealth management and investment, utilise platforms that screen investments for Sharia compliance, ensuring no involvement with industries like alcohol, gambling, conventional banking, or non-halal food.

• Investment Types: Islamic equity funds, Sukuk (Islamic bonds), ethical real estate investment trusts (REITs), and direct investments in Sharia-compliant businesses.
• Screening Process: These platforms typically employ Sharia boards or advisors to review and certify investments.
• Examples: Wahed Invest, Manzil, and certain ethical investment funds offered by mainstream financial institutions with an Islamic window.

Islamic Banking Services

For day-to-day banking, current accounts, and business financing, Islamic banks offer solutions that operate without interest.

• Account Types: Profit-sharing savings accounts (Mudarabah), current accounts (Qard Hasan), and various trade-finance mechanisms like Murabaha (cost-plus financing) and Musharakah (partnership financing).
• Benefits: Ensures all banking activities are free from riba and structured according to Islamic contracts.
• UK Islamic Banks: Gatehouse Bank, Al Rayan Bank, and others offering Sharia-compliant services.

Ethical Will Writing Services

For estate planning, specialist solicitors and firms can draft Islamic wills (Wasiyya) that comply with both UK law and Islamic inheritance rules (Fara’id).

• Purpose: Ensures that assets are distributed justly according to Sharia after one’s passing, avoiding potential disputes and ensuring religious obligations are met.
• Key Considerations: Proper calculation of shares for heirs, provisions for debts, funeral expenses, and charitable bequests.
• Finding Providers: Look for solicitors with expertise in “Islamic wills UK” or “Sharia-compliant estate planning.”

Zakat Advisory Services

Specific services dedicated to Zakat calculation and distribution ensure that this crucial pillar of Islam is fulfilled accurately and effectively. Floorrestore-more.co.uk Review

• Services: Guidance on assessing Nisab (minimum threshold), calculating Zakat on various assets (gold, silver, cash, investments, business assets), and advice on eligible recipients.
• Importance: Proper Zakat fulfilment purifies wealth and contributes to social welfare, aligning with Islamic economic justice.
• Availability: Many Islamic charities offer free Zakat calculators and advice, while some financial advisory firms provide more in-depth consultations.

Accounting Firms with Islamic Finance Specialisation

While rare, some accounting firms might have partners or departments specifically trained in Islamic finance. These firms would be able to handle conventional accounting tasks while advising on how to structure finances to be more Sharia-compliant or work alongside an Islamic finance advisor.

• Key Criterion: Explicit mention of Islamic finance services and a demonstrable understanding of Sharia principles.
• Verification: Always verify their credentials and ask for specific examples of how they handle interest-related matters in a Sharia-compliant manner.
• Recommendation: This option is only viable if they genuinely integrate Islamic finance principles into their core services, not just as an add-on.

How to Cancel portergarland.co.uk Subscription

The concept of “cancelling a subscription” with an accountancy firm like Porter Garland doesn’t typically apply in the same way it would for a software service or a monthly membership. Accountancy services are usually provided on an engagement basis, meaning you enter into an agreement for specific services over a defined period (e.g., annual accounts, quarterly VAT returns, ongoing payroll). Therefore, discontinuing services involves terminating this engagement rather than cancelling a recurring subscription fee.

Reviewing Your Engagement Letter

When you first engage an accountancy firm, they will provide you with an engagement letter. This is a crucial document that outlines the scope of services, fees, terms and conditions, and importantly, the terms for termination. Before taking any steps, always refer to your original engagement letter. This document will detail:

• Notice Period: The required notice period for termination (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days).
• Outstanding Fees: Any fees that become due upon termination, such as fees for work in progress or early termination penalties.
• Client Information Transfer: Procedures for transferring your financial records and data to a new accountant.

Formal Notification of Termination

Once you’ve reviewed your engagement letter, the next step is to formally notify Porter Garland of your intention to terminate their services. This should always be done in writing, ideally via email with a read receipt or a recorded delivery letter, to create a clear paper trail.

• Clarity: Clearly state your intention to terminate services and the effective date of termination.
• Reason (Optional): While not strictly necessary, you may briefly state your reason, e.g., “We have decided to change our accounting arrangements.” However, for ethical reasons, it’s appropriate to state the incompatibility with Islamic financial principles if that is the reason.
• Request for Information: Request confirmation of any outstanding fees and a clear process for the handover of your financial records.

Data Handover and Client Information

Upon termination, Porter Garland will be obligated to return your financial records and data. This process is usually outlined in the engagement letter and is crucial for a smooth transition to a new accountant. Upvc-store.co.uk Review

• Client Records: This includes ledgers, invoices, bank statements, tax returns, and any other financial documentation they hold on your behalf.
• Software Access: If you use cloud accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks) that they manage, ensure you understand how access will be transferred or if you need to set up new access for your new accountant.
• Professional Clearance: Your new accountant will typically send a “professional clearance letter” to Porter Garland, informing them of the change and requesting information relevant to taking over your affairs. This is a standard professional courtesy between accounting firms.

Settling Outstanding Balances

Ensure all outstanding fees for services rendered up to the termination date are settled promptly. This facilitates a smooth and amicable departure. Verify the final invoice against the terms outlined in your engagement letter.

Portergarland.co.uk Pricing

Portergarland.co.uk does not explicitly list pricing for their services on their homepage. This is standard practice for professional service firms like chartered accountants, as fees are typically tailored to the specific needs and complexity of each client’s situation. They offer a range of services from business accounting to personal tax affairs and cloud accounting, each with varying scopes and demands on resources.

Customised Fee Structure

Accountancy firms generally operate on a customised fee structure rather than fixed, publicly advertised prices. This is because:

• Scope of Work Varies: A sole trader’s annual accounts will differ significantly in complexity and time commitment from a medium-sized enterprise’s comprehensive financial management and tax planning.
• Client-Specific Needs: Some clients may require ongoing support (e.g., monthly payroll, quarterly VAT), while others might only need annual tax return preparation.
• Service Level: The level of advice, proactive planning, and direct client interaction can influence the cost.

How Pricing is Determined

When you engage Porter Garland or any similar accountancy firm, the pricing will typically be determined after an initial consultation where they assess your specific requirements. Factors influencing the cost would include:

• Type of Entity: Sole trader, partnership, limited company.
• Business Turnover: Higher turnover usually implies more transactions and complexity.
• Number of Employees: Relevant for payroll services.
• Volume of Transactions: The number of sales invoices, purchase invoices, and bank transactions.
• Specific Services Required: E.g., annual accounts, corporation tax, personal tax, VAT returns, payroll, management accounts, business advisory.
• Software Used: Whether they need to work with specific accounting software or migrate data.
• Urgency: Expedited work might incur additional fees.

Requesting a Quote

To get an accurate understanding of the costs, you would need to contact Porter Garland directly. They would likely offer a free initial consultation to discuss your needs and then provide a bespoke quote. This process is common to ensure both parties are clear on the deliverables and associated costs before formal engagement. Flyandride.co.uk Review

• Initial Contact: Use the phone number (01276 674870) or email ([email protected]) provided on their website.
• Detailed Brief: Be prepared to provide a clear and detailed brief of your accounting needs, including your business structure, estimated turnover, and the specific services you require.
• Engagement Letter: Any quote provided will likely be formalised in an engagement letter, which is a legally binding contract outlining the services, fees, and terms of engagement. Always review this document carefully.

Value for Money (Conventional Perspective)

From a conventional business perspective, the value of engaging an experienced chartered accountant often outweighs the cost. They can help businesses:

• Ensure Compliance: Avoid penalties for late filings or incorrect tax returns.
• Optimise Tax: Identify legitimate ways to reduce tax liabilities.
• Improve Cash Flow: Provide insights into financial performance.
• Strategic Planning: Offer advice on business growth, mergers, or sales.

However, as highlighted previously, this value proposition does not negate the ethical concerns from an Islamic finance standpoint, as the underlying financial systems they operate within are interest-based.

FAQ

What is Portergarland.co.uk?

Portergarland.co.uk is the official website for Porter Garland Chartered Accountants, a professional accounting firm based in Camberley, Surrey, UK, offering accounting and bookkeeping services for businesses and individuals.

Does Portergarland.co.uk offer services for individuals?

Yes, Portergarland.co.uk explicitly states that they offer “Personal accountant services” to help individuals keep their personal financial affairs in order.

Does Portergarland.co.uk offer business accounting services?

Yes, the website highlights “Business accounting services” to help businesses build a better financial future and manage their accounts effectively. Fairfaxhire.co.uk Review

What is “cloud accounting” mentioned on Portergarland.co.uk?

Cloud accounting, as mentioned on Portergarland.co.uk, refers to using online accounting software (like Xero or QuickBooks) that allows clients and accountants to work from anywhere, accessing financial data in real-time over the internet.

Is Portergarland.co.uk a legitimate company?

Yes, based on the professional website, clear contact information, links to third-party review platforms (Google, Trustpilot), and detailed service descriptions, Porter Garland appears to be a legitimate chartered accountancy firm.

Where can I find reviews for Portergarland.co.uk?

Portergarland.co.uk provides direct links on its homepage to its Google reviews and Trustpilot profile, allowing visitors to read client testimonials.

How do I contact Portergarland.co.uk?

You can contact Portergarland.co.uk by phone at 01276 674870 or via email at [email protected], with contact details prominently displayed on their website.

Does Portergarland.co.uk have a blog or news section?

Yes, Portergarland.co.uk features a “Blog” and “More resources” section with regular updates on financial news, deadlines, and important changes relevant to businesses and individuals. Paypacket.co.uk Review

What kind of articles are in the Portergarland.co.uk blog?

The Portergarland.co.uk blog features articles on various financial topics, including news round-ups, client success stories, and key changes in business and individual finance, as exemplified by their recent posts in June 2025 and May 2025.

What is the “Step by step guide to success” on Portergarland.co.uk?

The “Step by step guide to success” on Portergarland.co.uk outlines their client engagement process, typically involving three stages: scoping needs, planning for success, and getting results.

Does Portergarland.co.uk offer international accounting services?

The website primarily focuses on serving clients in Surrey, UK, and does not explicitly detail international accounting services, though they may assist with aspects relevant to UK-based entities with international dealings.

Are the services offered by Portergarland.co.uk Sharia-compliant?

No, the website does not indicate any specialisation in Islamic finance or Sharia-compliant services; their offerings appear to be based on conventional accounting practices which often involve interest (riba), making them generally unsuitable for those adhering to Islamic financial principles.

Does Portergarland.co.uk mention Zakat calculation services?

No, the website does not specifically mention Zakat calculation or advisory services, which is a key component of Islamic financial practice. Lieaton.co.uk Review

What social media platforms is Portergarland.co.uk active on?

Portergarland.co.uk has links to their profiles on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, allowing visitors to connect with them on social media.

Does Portergarland.co.uk provide tax advice?

Yes, as chartered accountants, Portergarland.co.uk explicitly mentions helping clients with questions about how to reduce their tax bill, indicating they provide tax advice.

Can I sign up for a newsletter from Portergarland.co.uk?

Yes, the website includes an option to “Sign up to our newsletter” to receive regular updates on financial news and information.

What geographic area does Portergarland.co.uk serve?

Portergarland.co.uk states they are “Expert Chartered Accountants for you in Surrey,” indicating their primary service area is Camberley and the wider Surrey region in the UK.

Does Portergarland.co.uk offer free consultations?

The website encourages prospective clients to “Get in touch,” which typically implies an initial consultation to discuss needs, though it doesn’t explicitly state if this initial meeting is free of charge. Gradeatechnology.co.uk Review

What are some ethical alternatives to conventional accounting services for Muslims?

Ethical alternatives include Islamic financial advisory firms, Takaful (Islamic insurance) providers, halal investment platforms, Islamic banking services, and specialists in Zakat advisory or Islamic wills.

How do I terminate services with an accountancy firm like Portergarland.co.uk?

Terminating services with an accountancy firm typically involves reviewing your engagement letter for termination clauses, providing formal written notice, and coordinating the handover of your financial records to your new accountant.

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