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Process3 min read

Running due diligence without losing the deal

Good due diligence is thorough but sequenced sensibly so the seller stays cooperative rather than defensive.

Reviewed by Valius AdvisoryUpdated Autumn 2026Evaluate track (Opportunity to offer)

The Standard Workstreams

on a small acquisition typically runs across several parallel tracks, each looking for a different kind of risk. Skipping any one of them because a deal feels straightforward is usually where trouble hides.

  • Financial: verifying reported and adjusted earnings, and debt
  • Commercial: , contracts, pipeline and market position
  • Legal: corporate structure, property, key contracts and any litigation
  • People: contracts of employment, key person risk and pension obligations
  • Operations: systems, suppliers, equipment condition and lease terms
  • Compliance: licences, regulatory standing, health and safety, insurance

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