Some systems have a recount as a normal part of the counting system. This is particularly true for more complex systems such as preferential or parallel systems. Other systems have recount as a way to solve disputes and challenges.
Once counting is completed and a result has been obtained, it is usual where paper ballots are used to allow candidates and/or political parties the right to apply for a recount. This means recounting some or all of the ballot papers to satisfy all parties that the correct outcome has been achieved. Depending on the technology used, it may also be feasible to recount an electronic ballot by, for example, reprocessing the original input documents.
Requests for recounts are usually made in writing.
As recounts can be time-consuming and expensive, the responsible polling official usually has the discretion to decide whether or not to grant a recount. Generally, recounts are conducted only if an election result is close, and there is some doubt as to the accuracy of the count. In some jurisdictions, recounts are automatic if the result is within a certain margin. In other cases, recounts may be mandatory whenever a result is challenged, regardless of the margin.
If the initial result is a tie, it is wise, as a general rule, to automatically conduct a recount to determine whether any mistakes were made that, if corrected, could break the tie. Otherwise, the definition of a 'close' election result will depend on local circumstances and the estimated margin of error in the first count. The most important consideration is to ensure that all parties will be satisfied with the outcome. If failure to conduct a recount will lead to one or more parties not accepting the election result, a recount should be conducted.
A recount can be either a full recount or a partial recount. Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to select some categories to recount, rather than conduct a complete recount. For example, a representative random sample might be chosen to give an indication of the accuracy of the initial count.
A recount may be undertaken simply as a check that all ballot papers have been correctly sorted. Or a recount may involve retracing one or more steps and conducting the recount as if it was the original count.
Thorough records of any recounts conducted should be kept. These will be necessary to satisfy all parties that proper procedure has been followed, and may be needed if the election result is challenged at a later stage.
There should be a time limit on applying for a recount. In most cases recounts will only be permitted within a short time after the completion of counting. For example, there may be a twenty-four hour or forty-eight hour limit. In some cases, recounts may only be requested before the official declaration of the election result. After that time, recourse may only be permitted to a court or tribunal.
If the responsible officer decides not to do a recount, a candidate or party may have the right to appeal that decision to a higher authority. That authority, such as a more senior electoral official, may in turn decide whether or not to do a recount.
