Vat audits in case of records lost in fire

In case the records not available for the purpose of Vat audit , then delay filing of Vat audit report. You may be levied a penalty which may get condoned due to genuiness of the case of fire ( no backing of any section , it is the principle of natural justice ). So later on file the vat audit report once the accounts are reworked and finalised.

Answer is specific to state of maharashtra.

In case of Vat assessment , you may get documents as much as possible from your customers and suppliers along with ledgers and confirmations of tax invoices issued and debit / credit notes. Atleast take top 10 parties documents of both purchase sale and also other documents. It is a tedious procedure and you need dedicated person to look into it and followup with parties.

Atleast do as much as documentation and relevant and proper submission at the initial stage so that later on if the matter is appealed to tribunal or courts , then you can save as much as dues on merit.