The firm's quarterly Aviva Adviser Barometer questioned 270 advisers for the survey.
It found that 44 per cent of advisers said remaining profitable was their top concern while other problems were professional indemnity costs, regulatory fees and levies and changing to adviser charging.
Almost half of advisers had their Statement of Professional Standing while 33 per cent expected to have one by the end of 2012.
On charging methods, the majority of advisers said they would be charging a percentage of initial investment or funds under management with the average initial charge being three per cent.

Technology such as platforms and back-office systems was reported as the biggest recent industry innovation and 20 per cent said they would increase their use of technology next year.
Over 85 per cent of advisers used technology to conduct research, submit applications, view policy information and get valuations.
Andy Beswick, intermediary director at Aviva, said: "As the RDR deadline looms ever closer, it is really positive to see advisers going beyond the minimal requirements for RDR and raising the bar for industry standards.
"Technology is seen as the key to improving efficiency in adviser businesses. Whilst it may not directly address the financial challenges advisers see coming in 2013, ensuring that firms are well-equipped and running efficiently will stand them in good stead to face future issues."