Bad debt destroys businesses. Don’t let yours be a victim.

The customer asks for more generous terms

Be wary when a customer suddenly asks to extend their credit or requests more time to settle their account. Make it a rule not to extend credit to customers who have not built up a good payment record and always check the credit history of new customers.

Their payment times start to slip

Late payment is a sure sign that a customer is experiencing cash flow problems and prioritising their creditors so be alert to changes from the usual pattern, including queries and disputes. Unfortunately, suppliers are often at the back of the queue behind organisations like banks so you need to do what you can to ensure your voice is heard. Be clear up front that you will use the law to claim interest and compensation for debt recovery costs and chase up invoices promptly.

Deteriorating service

They may be customers but you should still expect professionalism and courtesy from businesses with whom you trade so don’t close your eyes to empty promises or unreasonable behaviour. When a contact repeatedly fails to return your calls or experienced staff leave without warning, it could be a sign of more serious problems.

A financial shock hits their supply chain

The collapse of Carillion is a notorious example of how a financial shock can start a tidal wave along the supply chain, especially if the failed company specialised in complex, projects with long lead times. It’s worth finding out as much as possible about your customers’ customers and the extent of their financial exposure.

They operate in a high-risk sector

Trade risk will ebb and flow depending on the wider economy but sectors can face particular challenges such as production overcapacity, scarcity of raw materials or a speculative bubble which distorts the market. It doesn’t mean that your customer will be affected but if they operate in a high-risk sector you may still want to reassure yourself of their financial stability.