1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Description Of Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies
NOTE 1: BASIS OF PRESENTATION	Description of Business Deep Down, Inc., a Nevada corporation (“Deep Down Nevada”), and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Deep Down, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Deep Down Delaware”); Mako Technologies, LLC, a Nevada limited-liability company (“Mako”) (operations consolidated into Deep Down Delaware in August 2012); Flotation Technologies, Inc., a Maine corporation (dissolved in August 2012) and Deep Down International Holdings, LLC, a Nevada limited-liability company, (collectively referred to as “Deep Down”, “we”, “us” or the “Company”) is an oilfield services company specializing in complex deepwater and ultra-deepwater oil production distribution system support services, serving the worldwide offshore exploration and production industry. Our services and technological solutions include distribution system installation support and engineering services, umbilical terminations, loose-tube steel flying leads, flotation and Remote Operated Vehicles (“ROVs”) and related services. We support subsea engineering, installation, commissioning, and maintenance projects through specialized, highly experienced service teams and engineered technological solutions. Deep Down’s primary focus is on more complex deepwater and ultra-deepwater oil production distribution system support services and technologies, used between the platform and the wellhead. As described below in Note 3, “Investment in Joint Venture”, effective December 31, 2010, we engaged in a transaction in which all of the operating assets and liabilities of our wholly-owned subsidiary, Flotation Technologies, Inc. (“Flotation”), along with other contributions we made, were contributed to a joint venture entity named Cuming Flotation Technologies, LLC (“CFT”), in return for a 20 percent common unit ownership interest in CFT. On October 7, 2011, CFT consummated a transaction pursuant to that certain Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”), by and between CFT and a Houston-based company (“Buyer”) pursuant to which Buyer purchased from CFT (i) all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of Cuming, (ii) the shares of 230 Bodwell Corporation, a Massachusetts corporation and subsidiary of Cuming, and (iii) certain assets that, immediately prior to closing, were acquired by Cuming, for a purchase price of $60,000 (less certain debt and subject to purchase price adjustment for working capital and potential earn-out payments). Deep Down is entitled to 20 percent of the common equity proceeds (including earn-out payments) from the sale and will be subject to 20 percent of any indemnity obligations over the indemnity escrow amount (5 percent) pursuant to the Purchase Agreement. Such indemnity obligation will be capped at the amount of proceeds Deep Down receives pursuant to that certain Indemnification and Contribution Agreement dated October 7, 2011 (the “Indemnification Agreement”). Deep Down’s proceeds received from the sale were approximately $6,375, which does not include any potential earn-out payments. The proceeds of approximately $6,375 are comprised of a $3,400 return of capital to Deep Down and Flotation and an estimated $2,975 distribution of Deep Down and Flotation’s share of the estimated profit on the sale. These sums do not include incremental proceeds anticipated from the return of escrow or future earn-out payments. In August 2012, we transferred Flotation’s ownership interest in CFT to Deep Down Nevada and dissolved Flotation. Additionally in August 2012, we consolidated the operations of Mako in Morgan City, Louisiana into Deep Down Delaware in Channelview, Texas. Liquidity As a deepwater service provider, our revenues, profitability, cash flows, and future rate of growth are substantially dependent on the condition of the global oil and gas industry generally, and our customers’ ability to invest capital for offshore exploration, drilling and production and maintain or increase levels of expenditures for maintenance of offshore drilling and production facilities. Oil and gas prices and the level of offshore drilling and production activity have historically been characterized by significant volatility. We enter into large, fixed-price contracts which may require significant lead time and investment. A decline in offshore drilling and production activity could result in lower contract volume or delays in significant contracts which could negatively impact our earnings and cash flows. Our earnings and cash flows could also be negatively affected by delays in payments by significant customers or delays in completion of our contracts for any reason. While our objective is to enter into contracts with our customers that are cash flow positive, we may not always be able to achieve this objective. We are dependent on our cash flows from operations to fund our working capital requirements and the uncertainties noted above create risks that we may not achieve our planned earnings or cash flow from operations, which may require us to raise additional debt or equity capital. There can be no assurance that we could raise additional capital. During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we supplemented the financing of our capital needs primarily through debt financings. Most significant in this regard has been the credit facility we have maintained with Whitney Bank, a state chartered bank (and successor to Whitney National Bank, a national banking association) (“Whitney”). Our loans outstanding under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Whitney (the “Restated Credit Agreement”) were to become due on April 15, 2013. On March 5, 2013, we entered into the Fifth Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (“Fifth Amendment”) with Whitney; see additional discussion in Note 6, “Long-Term Debt.” As a result, we believe we will have adequate liquidity to meet our future operating requirements. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies *Principles of Consolidation* The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Deep Down and its wholly-owned subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. *Reclassifications* Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation. These reclassifications have not resulted in any changes to previously reported net income or cash flows. *Use of Estimates* The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. *Segments* For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, our operating segments, Deep Down Delaware and Mako have been aggregated into a single reporting segment. In August 2012, we consolidated the operations of Mako in Morgan City, Louisiana into Deep Down Delaware in Channelview, Texas. While the operating segments have different product lines, they are very similar. They are all service-based operations revolving around our personnel’s expertise in the deepwater and ultra-deepwater industry, and any equipment is produced to a customer specified design and engineered using Deep Down personnel’s expertise, with installation and project management as part of our service revenue to the customer. Additionally, the operating segments have similar customers and distribution methods, and their economic characteristics are similar with regard to their gross margin percentages. Our operations are located in the United States, although we occasionally generate sales to international customers. *Cash and Cash Equivalents* We consider all highly liquid investments with maturities from date of purchase of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on deposit with domestic banks and, at times, may exceed federally insured limits. *Fair Value of Financial Instruments* Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We utilize a fair value hierarchy, which maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The fair value hierarchy has three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value: Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities. Level 2 - Quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 3 - Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. Our financial instruments consist primarily of cash equivalents, trade receivables and payables and debt instruments. The carrying values of cash equivalents and trade receivable and payables approximated their fair values at December 31, 2012 and 2011 due to their short-term maturities. We calculated the fair values of our debt instruments using time value of money principles, and determined their carrying values at December 31, 2012 and 2011 also approximated their fair values. *Accounts Receivable* Trade receivables are uncollateralized customer obligations due under normal trade terms. We provide an allowance for doubtful trade receivables based on a specific review of each customer’s trade receivable balance with respect to their ability to make payments. When specific accounts are determined to require an allowance, they are expensed by a provision for bad debts in that period. At December 31, 2012 and 2011, we estimated the allowance for doubtful accounts requirement to be $1,211 and $48, respectively. Provision (credit) for bad debts totaled $1,134 and $(223) for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. *Concentration of Credit Risk* As of December 31, 2012, five of our customers accounted for 53 percent, 7 percent, 7 percent, 6 percent and 5 percent of total accounts receivable. As of December 31, 2011, five of our customers accounted for 18 percent, 13 percent, 12 percent, 9 percent and 6 percent of total accounts receivable. For the year ended December 31, 2012, our four largest customers accounted for 30 percent, 15 percent, 6 percent and 5 percent of total revenues. For the year ended December 31, 2011, our four largest customers accounted for 26 percent, 13 percent, 13 percent and 12 percent of total revenues. *Inventory* Inventory, which consists of spare parts and materials used in our operations, is stated at lower of cost (first-in, first out) or net realizable value. *Long-Lived Assets* Property, plant and equipment. Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets. Replacements and betterments are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. It is our policy to include amortization expense on assets acquired under capital leases with depreciation expense on owned assets. Additionally, we record depreciation and amortization expense related to revenue-generating assets as a component of cost of sales in the accompanying statements of operations. Goodwill. Goodwill represents the cost in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations. We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill annually on December 31, and between annual evaluations if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. Such circumstances could include a significant adverse change in legal factors or in business or the business climate or unanticipated competition. For purposes of our annual impairment test, our reporting units are the same as our operating segments discussed above. The test for goodwill impairment uses a two-step approach. The first step is to compare the estimated fair value of any reporting units within the Company that have goodwill with the recorded net book value (including the goodwill) of the reporting unit. If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is higher than the recorded net book value, no impairment is deemed to exist and no further testing is required. If, however, the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is below the recorded net book value, then a second step must be performed to determine the goodwill impairment required, if any. In this second step, the estimated fair value from the first step is used as the purchase price in a hypothetical acquisition of the operating segment. Purchase business combination accounting rules are followed to determine a hypothetical purchase price allocation to a reporting unit’s assets and liabilities. The residual amount of goodwill that results from this hypothetical purchase price allocation is compared to the carrying value of goodwill for the reporting unit, and the carrying value is written down to the hypothetical amount, if lower. There was no impairment of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011. Other intangible assets. Our other intangible assets generally consist of assets acquired related to previous business combinations and are primarily comprised of customer lists, trademarks and non-compete covenants. We amortize intangible assets over their useful lives ranging from six to twenty-five years on a straight-line basis. We make judgments and estimates in conjunction with the carrying value of these assets, including amounts to be capitalized, amortization methods, useful lives and the valuation of acquired other intangible assets. All the intangible assets of Flotation were contributed to CFT effective December 31, 2010; see additional discussion in Note 3, “Investment in Joint Venture.” We test for the impairment of other intangible assets upon the occurrence of a triggering event. We base our evaluation on impairment indicators such as the nature of the assets, the future economic benefit of the assets, any historical or future profitability measurements and other external market conditions or factors that may be present. If these impairment indicators are present or other factors exist that indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable, we determine whether an impairment has occurred through the use of an undiscounted cash flows analysis of the asset at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows exist. The undiscounted cash flow analysis consists of estimating the future cash flows that are directly associated with and expected to arise from the use and eventual disposition of the asset over its remaining useful life. These cash flows are inherently subjective and require significant estimates based upon historical experience and future expectations reflected in our budgets and internal projections. If the undiscounted cash flows do not exceed the carrying value of the long-lived asset, an impairment has occurred, and we recognize a loss for the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated fair value of the asset. The fair value of the asset is measured using quoted market prices or, in the absence of quoted market prices, is based on an estimate of discounted cash flows. Cash flows are generally discounted at an interest rate commensurate with our weighted average cost of capital for a similar asset. In August 2012, we closed down our office in Morgan City, Louisiana, and consolidated the operations of Mako into Deep Down Delaware in Channelview, Texas. In November 2012, we evaluated Mako’s customer lists, trademarks and non-compete covenants in light of the consolidation and determined that these other intangible assets had no future economic benefit. As a result, in the year ended December 31, 2012, we recorded impairment expense of $2,156 primarily to fully impair the remaining carrying value of the Mako intangibles. There was no impairment of other intangible assets for the year ended December 31, 2011. *Equity Method Investments* Equity method investments in joint ventures are reported as investments in joint venture on the consolidated balance sheets, and our share of earnings or losses is included in the statements of operations and reported as equity in net income or loss of joint venture in the consolidated statements of operations. *Lease Obligations* We lease land, buildings, vehicles and certain equipment under non-cancellable operating leases. Since February 2009, we have leased our corporate headquarters in Houston, Texas, under a non-cancellable operating lease. Mako leases office, warehouse and operating space in Morgan City, Louisiana, under a non-cancellable operating lease. As a result of the consolidation of Mako’s operations into Deep Down Delaware in August 2012; in December 2012, we sub-leased this space to a third party. We also lease certain office and other operating equipment under capital leases; the related assets are included with property, plant and equipment on the consolidated balance sheets. At the inception of a lease, we evaluate the agreement to determine whether the lease will be accounted for as an operating or capital lease. The term of the lease used for such an evaluation includes renewal option periods only in instances in which the exercise of the renewal option can be reasonably assured and failure to exercise such option would result in an economic penalty. *Revenue Recognition* We recognize revenue once the following four criterion are met: (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (ii) delivery of the equipment has occurred or services have been rendered, (iii) the price of the equipment or service is fixed and determinable and (iv) collectability of the related receivable is reasonably assured. Service revenue is recognized as the service is provided, and time and materials contracts are billed on a bi-weekly or monthly basis as costs are incurred. Customer billings for shipping and handling charges are included in revenue. Revenues are recorded net of sales taxes. From time to time, we enter into large fixed-price contracts. The percentage-of-completion method is used as a basis for recognizing revenue on these contracts. We recognize revenue as costs are incurred because we believe the incurrence of cost reasonably reflects progress made toward project completion. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted large fixed-price contracts (if any) are recorded in the period in which it is determined it is more likely than not a loss will be incurred. Changes in job performance, job conditions, and total contract values may result in revisions to costs and income and are recognized in the period in which the revisions are determined. Unapproved change orders are accounted for in revenue and cost when it is probable that the costs will be recovered through a change in the contract price. In circumstances where recovery is considered probable but the revenues cannot be reliably estimated, costs attributable to change orders are deferred pending determination of contract price. Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts arise when revenues are recorded on a percentage-of-completion basis but cannot be invoiced under the terms of the contract. Such amounts are invoiced upon completion of contractual milestones. Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts arise when milestone billings are permissible under the contract, but the related costs have not yet been incurred. All contract costs are recognized currently on jobs formally approved by the customer and contracts are not shown as complete until virtually all anticipated costs have been incurred and the risk of loss has passed to the customer. Assets and liabilities related to costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts, as well as billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts, have been classified as current. The contract cycle for certain long-term contracts may extend beyond one year, thus complete collection of amounts related to these contracts may extend beyond one year, though such long-term contracts include contractual milestone billings as discussed above. *Income Taxes* We follow the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. This method takes into account the differences between financial statement treatment and tax treatment of certain transactions. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates is recognized as income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date. We record a valuation allowance to reduce the carrying value of our deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will expire before realization of the benefit or that future deductibility is not probable. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax assets depends upon our ability to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in the future. This requires management to use estimates and make assumptions regarding significant future events such as the taxability of entities operating in the various taxing jurisdictions. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets, we consider all reasonably available positive and negative evidence, including our past operating results, the existence of cumulative losses in the most recent years and our forecast of future taxable income. In estimating future taxable income, we develop assumptions, including the amount of future state, and federal pre-tax operating income, the reversal of temporary differences and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment. When the likelihood of the realization of existing deferred tax assets changes, adjustments to the valuation allowance are charged in the period in which the determination is made, either to income or goodwill, depending upon when that portion of the valuation allowance was originally created. We record an estimated tax liability or tax benefit for income and other taxes based on what we determine will likely be paid in the various tax jurisdictions in which we operate. We use our best judgment in the determination of these amounts. However, the liabilities ultimately realized and paid are dependent upon various matters, including resolution of tax audits, and may differ from amounts recorded. An adjustment to the estimated liability would be recorded as a provision or benefit to income tax expense in the period in which it becomes probable that the amount of the actual liability or benefit differs from the recorded amount. Our future effective tax rates could be adversely affected by changes in the valuation of our deferred tax assets or liabilities or changes in tax laws or interpretations thereof. If and when our deferred tax assets are no longer fully reserved, we will begin to provide for taxes at the full statutory rate. In addition, we are subject to the examination of our income tax returns by the Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities. We regularly assess the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes. *Share-Based Compensation* We record share-based payment awards exchanged for employee service at fair value on the date of grant and expense the awards in the consolidated statements of operations over the requisite employee service period. Share-based compensation expense includes an estimate for forfeitures and is generally recognized over the expected term of the award on a straight-line basis. At December 31, 2012, we had two types of share-based employee compensation: stock options and restricted stock. In addition to employee service, the restricted stock awards also have a performance component. Key assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model for stock option valuations include (1) expected volatility (2) expected term (3) discount rate and (4) expected dividend yield. Since we do not have a sufficient trading history to determine the volatility of our own stock, we based our estimates of volatility on a representative peer group consisting of companies in the same industry, with similar market capitalizations and similar stage of development. Additionally, we continue to use the simplified method related to employee option grants. *Earnings or Loss per Common Share* Basic earnings or loss per common share (“EPS”) is calculated by dividing net earnings or loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing net earnings or loss by the weighted average number of common shares and dilutive common stock equivalents (stock options, restricted stock and warrants) outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if stock options and warrants to purchase common stock were exercised for shares of common stock. In periods where losses are reported, the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding excludes common stock equivalents, because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive. *Recent Accounting Pronouncements* In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2012-02, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment (“ASU 2012”), an accounting standards update regarding the testing of indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. Under this update, an entity has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicate it is more likely than not the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. If, after assessing the events and circumstances, an entity concludes it is more likely than not the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, then the entity is not required to take further action. However, if any entity concludes otherwise, it is required to determine the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset and perform the quantitative impairment testing by comparing the fair value with the carrying amount. An entity also has the option to bypass the qualitative assessment for any indefinite-lived intangible asset in any period and proceed directly to performing the quantitative test. An entity will be able to resume performing the qualitative assessment in any subsequent period. This update is effective for annual and interim tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted ASU 2012-02 in the fourth quarter of 2012 with no material impact on its financial position, cash flows or results of operations. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements We have no off-balance sheet arrangements, which are material to investors that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Description Of Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

Description of Business

Deep Down, Inc., a Nevada corporation (“Deep Down Nevada”), and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Deep Down, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Deep Down Delaware”); Mako Technologies, LLC, a Nevada limited-liability company (“Mako”) (operations consolidated into Deep Down Delaware in August 2012); Flotation Technologies, Inc., a Maine corporation (dissolved in August 2012) and Deep Down International Holdings, LLC, a Nevada limited-liability company, (collectively referred to as “Deep Down”, “we”, “us” or the “Company”) is an oilfield services company specializing in complex deepwater and ultra-deepwater oil production distribution system support services, serving the worldwide offshore exploration and production industry. Our services and technological solutions include distribution system installation support and engineering services, umbilical terminations, loose-tube steel flying leads, flotation and Remote Operated Vehicles (“ROVs”) and related services. We support subsea engineering, installation, commissioning, and maintenance projects through specialized, highly experienced service teams and engineered technological solutions. Deep Down’s primary focus is on more complex deepwater and ultra-deepwater oil production distribution system support services and technologies, used between the platform and the wellhead.

As described below in Note 3, “Investment in Joint Venture”, effective December 31, 2010, we engaged in a transaction in which all of the operating assets and liabilities of our wholly-owned subsidiary, Flotation Technologies, Inc. (“Flotation”), along with other contributions we made, were contributed to a joint venture entity named Cuming Flotation Technologies, LLC (“CFT”), in return for a 20 percent common unit ownership interest in CFT.

On October 7, 2011, CFT consummated a transaction pursuant to that certain Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”), by and between CFT and a Houston-based company (“Buyer”) pursuant to which Buyer purchased from CFT (i) all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of Cuming, (ii) the shares of 230 Bodwell Corporation, a Massachusetts corporation and subsidiary of Cuming, and (iii) certain assets that, immediately prior to closing, were acquired by Cuming, for a purchase price of $60,000 (less certain debt and subject to purchase price adjustment for working capital and potential earn-out payments). Deep Down is entitled to 20 percent of the common equity proceeds (including earn-out payments) from the sale and will be subject to 20 percent of any indemnity obligations over the indemnity escrow amount (5 percent) pursuant to the Purchase Agreement. Such indemnity obligation will be capped at the amount of proceeds Deep Down receives pursuant to that certain Indemnification and Contribution Agreement dated October 7, 2011 (the “Indemnification Agreement”). Deep Down’s proceeds received from the sale were approximately $6,375, which does not include any potential earn-out payments. The proceeds of approximately $6,375 are comprised of a $3,400 return of capital to Deep Down and Flotation and an estimated $2,975 distribution of Deep Down and Flotation’s share of the estimated profit on the sale. These sums do not include incremental proceeds anticipated from the return of escrow or future earn-out payments.

In August 2012, we transferred Flotation’s ownership interest in CFT to Deep Down Nevada and dissolved Flotation.

Additionally in August 2012, we consolidated the operations of Mako in Morgan City, Louisiana into Deep Down Delaware in Channelview, Texas.

Liquidity

As a deepwater service provider, our revenues, profitability, cash flows, and future rate of growth are substantially dependent on the condition of the global oil and gas industry generally, and our customers’ ability to invest capital for offshore exploration, drilling and production and maintain or increase levels of expenditures for maintenance of offshore drilling and production facilities. Oil and gas prices and the level of offshore drilling and production activity have historically been characterized by significant volatility. We enter into large, fixed-price contracts which may require significant lead time and investment. A decline in offshore drilling and production activity could result in lower contract volume or delays in significant contracts which could negatively impact our earnings and cash flows. Our earnings and cash flows could also be negatively affected by delays in payments by significant customers or delays in completion of our contracts for any reason. While our objective is to enter into contracts with our customers that are cash flow positive, we may not always be able to achieve this objective. We are dependent on our cash flows from operations to fund our working capital requirements and the uncertainties noted above create risks that we may not achieve our planned earnings or cash flow from operations, which may require us to raise additional debt or equity capital. There can be no assurance that we could raise additional capital.

During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we supplemented the financing of our capital needs primarily through debt financings. Most significant in this regard has been the credit facility we have maintained with Whitney Bank, a state chartered bank (and successor to Whitney National Bank, a national banking association) (“Whitney”). Our loans outstanding under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Whitney (the “Restated Credit Agreement”) were to become due on April 15, 2013.

On March 5, 2013, we entered into the Fifth Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (“Fifth Amendment”) with Whitney; see additional discussion in Note 6, “Long-Term Debt.”

As a result, we believe we will have adequate liquidity to meet our future operating requirements.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Deep Down and its wholly-owned subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

Reclassifications

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation. These reclassifications have not resulted in any changes to previously reported net income or cash flows.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Segments

For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, our operating segments, Deep Down Delaware and Mako have been aggregated into a single reporting segment. In August 2012, we consolidated the operations of Mako in Morgan City, Louisiana into Deep Down Delaware in Channelview, Texas. While the operating segments have different product lines, they are very similar. They are all service-based operations revolving around our personnel’s expertise in the deepwater and ultra-deepwater industry, and any equipment is produced to a customer specified design and engineered using Deep Down personnel’s expertise, with installation and project management as part of our service revenue to the customer. Additionally, the operating segments have similar customers and distribution methods, and their economic characteristics are similar with regard to their gross margin percentages. Our operations are located in the United States, although we occasionally generate sales to international customers.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid investments with maturities from date of purchase of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on deposit with domestic banks and, at times, may exceed federally insured limits.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We utilize a fair value hierarchy, which maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The fair value hierarchy has three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.

Level 2 - Quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.

Level 3 - Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable.

Our financial instruments consist primarily of cash equivalents, trade receivables and payables and debt instruments. The carrying values of cash equivalents and trade receivable and payables approximated their fair values at December 31, 2012 and 2011 due to their short-term maturities. We calculated the fair values of our debt instruments using time value of money principles, and determined their carrying values at December 31, 2012 and 2011 also approximated their fair values.

Accounts Receivable

Trade receivables are uncollateralized customer obligations due under normal trade terms. We provide an allowance for doubtful trade receivables based on a specific review of each customer’s trade receivable balance with respect to their ability to make payments. When specific accounts are determined to require an allowance, they are expensed by a provision for bad debts in that period. At December 31, 2012 and 2011, we estimated the allowance for doubtful accounts requirement to be $1,211 and $48, respectively. Provision (credit) for bad debts totaled $1,134 and $(223) for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Concentration of Credit Risk

As of December 31, 2012, five of our customers accounted for 53 percent, 7 percent, 7 percent, 6 percent and 5 percent of total accounts receivable. As of December 31, 2011, five of our customers accounted for 18 percent, 13 percent, 12 percent, 9 percent and 6 percent of total accounts receivable.

For the year ended December 31, 2012, our four largest customers accounted for 30 percent, 15 percent, 6 percent and 5 percent of total revenues. For the year ended December 31, 2011, our four largest customers accounted for 26 percent, 13 percent, 13 percent and 12 percent of total revenues.

Inventory

Inventory, which consists of spare parts and materials used in our operations, is stated at lower of cost (first-in, first out) or net realizable value.

Long-Lived Assets

Property, plant and equipment. Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets. Replacements and betterments are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. It is our policy to include amortization expense on assets acquired under capital leases with depreciation expense on owned assets. Additionally, we record depreciation and amortization expense related to revenue-generating assets as a component of cost of sales in the accompanying statements of operations.

Goodwill. Goodwill represents the cost in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations. We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill annually on December 31, and between annual evaluations if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. Such circumstances could include a significant adverse change in legal factors or in business or the business climate or unanticipated competition. For purposes of our annual impairment test, our reporting units are the same as our operating segments discussed above.

The test for goodwill impairment uses a two-step approach. The first step is to compare the estimated fair value of any reporting units within the Company that have goodwill with the recorded net book value (including the goodwill) of the reporting unit. If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is higher than the recorded net book value, no impairment is deemed to exist and no further testing is required. If, however, the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is below the recorded net book value, then a second step must be performed to determine the goodwill impairment required, if any. In this second step, the estimated fair value from the first step is used as the purchase price in a hypothetical acquisition of the operating segment. Purchase business combination accounting rules are followed to determine a hypothetical purchase price allocation to a reporting unit’s assets and liabilities. The residual amount of goodwill that results from this hypothetical purchase price allocation is compared to the carrying value of goodwill for the reporting unit, and the carrying value is written down to the hypothetical amount, if lower.

There was no impairment of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Other intangible assets. Our other intangible assets generally consist of assets acquired related to previous business combinations and are primarily comprised of customer lists, trademarks and non-compete covenants. We amortize intangible assets over their useful lives ranging from six to twenty-five years on a straight-line basis. We make judgments and estimates in conjunction with the carrying value of these assets, including amounts to be capitalized, amortization methods, useful lives and the valuation of acquired other intangible assets. All the intangible assets of Flotation were contributed to CFT effective December 31, 2010; see additional discussion in Note 3, “Investment in Joint Venture.”

We test for the impairment of other intangible assets upon the occurrence of a triggering event. We base our evaluation on impairment indicators such as the nature of the assets, the future economic benefit of the assets, any historical or future profitability measurements and other external market conditions or factors that may be present. If these impairment indicators are present or other factors exist that indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable, we determine whether an impairment has occurred through the use of an undiscounted cash flows analysis of the asset at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows exist. The undiscounted cash flow analysis consists of estimating the future cash flows that are directly associated with and expected to arise from the use and eventual disposition of the asset over its remaining useful life. These cash flows are inherently subjective and require significant estimates based upon historical experience and future expectations reflected in our budgets and internal projections. If the undiscounted cash flows do not exceed the carrying value of the long-lived asset, an impairment has occurred, and we recognize a loss for the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated fair value of the asset. The fair value of the asset is measured using quoted market prices or, in the absence of quoted market prices, is based on an estimate of discounted cash flows. Cash flows are generally discounted at an interest rate commensurate with our weighted average cost of capital for a similar asset.

In August 2012, we closed down our office in Morgan City, Louisiana, and consolidated the operations of Mako into Deep Down Delaware in Channelview, Texas. In November 2012, we evaluated Mako’s customer lists, trademarks and non-compete covenants in light of the consolidation and determined that these other intangible assets had no future economic benefit. As a result, in the year ended December 31, 2012, we recorded impairment expense of $2,156 primarily to fully impair the remaining carrying value of the Mako intangibles.

There was no impairment of other intangible assets for the year ended December 31, 2011.

Equity Method Investments

Equity method investments in joint ventures are reported as investments in joint venture on the consolidated balance sheets, and our share of earnings or losses is included in the statements of operations and reported as equity in net income or loss of joint venture in the consolidated statements of operations.

Lease Obligations

We lease land, buildings, vehicles and certain equipment under non-cancellable operating leases. Since February 2009, we have leased our corporate headquarters in Houston, Texas, under a non-cancellable operating lease. Mako leases office, warehouse and operating space in Morgan City, Louisiana, under a non-cancellable operating lease. As a result of the consolidation of Mako’s operations into Deep Down Delaware in August 2012; in December 2012, we sub-leased this space to a third party. We also lease certain office and other operating equipment under capital leases; the related assets are included with property, plant and equipment on the consolidated balance sheets.

At the inception of a lease, we evaluate the agreement to determine whether the lease will be accounted for as an operating or capital lease. The term of the lease used for such an evaluation includes renewal option periods only in instances in which the exercise of the renewal option can be reasonably assured and failure to exercise such option would result in an economic penalty.

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue once the following four criterion are met: (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (ii) delivery of the equipment has occurred or services have been rendered, (iii) the price of the equipment or service is fixed and determinable and (iv) collectability of the related receivable is reasonably assured. Service revenue is recognized as the service is provided, and time and materials contracts are billed on a bi-weekly or monthly basis as costs are incurred. Customer billings for shipping and handling charges are included in revenue. Revenues are recorded net of sales taxes.

From time to time, we enter into large fixed-price contracts. The percentage-of-completion method is used as a basis for recognizing revenue on these contracts. We recognize revenue as costs are incurred because we believe the incurrence of cost reasonably reflects progress made toward project completion.

Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted large fixed-price contracts (if any) are recorded in the period in which it is determined it is more likely than not a loss will be incurred. Changes in job performance, job conditions, and total contract values may result in revisions to costs and income and are recognized in the period in which the revisions are determined. Unapproved change orders are accounted for in revenue and cost when it is probable that the costs will be recovered through a change in the contract price. In circumstances where recovery is considered probable but the revenues cannot be reliably estimated, costs attributable to change orders are deferred pending determination of contract price.

Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts arise when revenues are recorded on a percentage-of-completion basis but cannot be invoiced under the terms of the contract. Such amounts are invoiced upon completion of contractual milestones. Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts arise when milestone billings are permissible under the contract, but the related costs have not yet been incurred. All contract costs are recognized currently on jobs formally approved by the customer and contracts are not shown as complete until virtually all anticipated costs have been incurred and the risk of loss has passed to the customer.

Assets and liabilities related to costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts, as well as billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts, have been classified as current. The contract cycle for certain long-term contracts may extend beyond one year, thus complete collection of amounts related to these contracts may extend beyond one year, though such long-term contracts include contractual milestone billings as discussed above.

Income Taxes

We follow the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. This method takes into account the differences between financial statement treatment and tax treatment of certain transactions. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates is recognized as income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date.

We record a valuation allowance to reduce the carrying value of our deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will expire before realization of the benefit or that future deductibility is not probable. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax assets depends upon our ability to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in the future. This requires management to use estimates and make assumptions regarding significant future events such as the taxability of entities operating in the various taxing jurisdictions. In evaluating our ability to recover our deferred tax assets, we consider all reasonably available positive and negative evidence, including our past operating results, the existence of cumulative losses in the most recent years and our forecast of future taxable income. In estimating future taxable income, we develop assumptions, including the amount of future state, and federal pre-tax operating income, the reversal of temporary differences and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment. When the likelihood of the realization of existing deferred tax assets changes, adjustments to the valuation allowance are charged in the period in which the determination is made, either to income or goodwill, depending upon when that portion of the valuation allowance was originally created.

We record an estimated tax liability or tax benefit for income and other taxes based on what we determine will likely be paid in the various tax jurisdictions in which we operate. We use our best judgment in the determination of these amounts. However, the liabilities ultimately realized and paid are dependent upon various matters, including resolution of tax audits, and may differ from amounts recorded. An adjustment to the estimated liability would be recorded as a provision or benefit to income tax expense in the period in which it becomes probable that the amount of the actual liability or benefit differs from the recorded amount.

Our future effective tax rates could be adversely affected by changes in the valuation of our deferred tax assets or liabilities or changes in tax laws or interpretations thereof. If and when our deferred tax assets are no longer fully reserved, we will begin to provide for taxes at the full statutory rate. In addition, we are subject to the examination of our income tax returns by the Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities. We regularly assess the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes.

Share-Based Compensation

We record share-based payment awards exchanged for employee service at fair value on the date of grant and expense the awards in the consolidated statements of operations over the requisite employee service period. Share-based compensation expense includes an estimate for forfeitures and is generally recognized over the expected term of the award on a straight-line basis. At December 31, 2012, we had two types of share-based employee compensation: stock options and restricted stock. In addition to employee service, the restricted stock awards also have a performance component.

Key assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model for stock option valuations include (1) expected volatility (2) expected term (3) discount rate and (4) expected dividend yield. Since we do not have a sufficient trading history to determine the volatility of our own stock, we based our estimates of volatility on a representative peer group consisting of companies in the same industry, with similar market capitalizations and similar stage of development. Additionally, we continue to use the simplified method related to employee option grants.

Earnings or Loss per Common Share

Basic earnings or loss per common share (“EPS”) is calculated by dividing net earnings or loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing net earnings or loss by the weighted average number of common shares and dilutive common stock equivalents (stock options, restricted stock and warrants) outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if stock options and warrants to purchase common stock were exercised for shares of common stock. In periods where losses are reported, the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding excludes common stock equivalents, because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2012-02, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment (“ASU 2012”), an accounting standards update regarding the testing of indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. Under this update, an entity has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicate it is more likely than not the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. If, after assessing the events and circumstances, an entity concludes it is more likely than not the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired, then the entity is not required to take further action. However, if any entity concludes otherwise, it is required to determine the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset and perform the quantitative impairment testing by comparing the fair value with the carrying amount. An entity also has the option to bypass the qualitative assessment for any indefinite-lived intangible asset in any period and proceed directly to performing the quantitative test. An entity will be able to resume performing the qualitative assessment in any subsequent period. This update is effective for annual and interim tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted ASU 2012-02 in the fourth quarter of 2012 with no material impact on its financial position, cash flows or results of operations.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have no off-balance sheet arrangements, which are material to investors that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.