Due diligence is an investigative procedure that occurs whenever a business is contemplating entering into a contract, or making an Data Room investment. Typically, companies conduct due diligence when purchasing or selling goods and services, or when merging with or buying another company. It could also be an integral part of an impact assessment of human rights which is carried out to ensure that the company is not violating the rights of another. Due diligence is a crucial aspect of any transaction. However, it can be particularly important for businesses entering into M&A. In reality, a lack of due diligence and inadequate investigation has been a major contributor to some of the most significant M&A transactions that have failed.

Due diligence comes in a variety of forms, and based on the specific circumstances, each type may be extremely complex. Financial due diligence, for instance will examine a company’s finance documents to check the information contained in the Confidentiality Information Memorandum (CIM) are correct. This can include examining audited financial statements, recent unaudited financial records, and comparing them to comparable statements, revenue projections, and many more.

Due diligence in real estate is a lengthy, time-consuming procedure that can cost a lot of money. Buyers should carefully examine the zoning regulations, potential liens, and existing structures to determine the possibility of liability and costs. This may include interviewing key employees and analyzing the record-keeping system and assessing compliance requirements. In the past, much of this work had to be done face-to-face at the location of the seller, however, with advances in technology, much of it can be done online.