Under JAR-OPS/EASA there is no requirement for the issue of a Certificate of Release to Service (CRS) for Pre-Flight Inspections. Pilots may certify the transit - including refueling etc. provided they have received initial or continuation training in the procedures - including hands-on practical - and have been issued with an authorisation certificate under the Quality System.
Thus, there is no need to have a licensed engineer in attendance, unless there is a defect to be rectified (e.g. a wheel or brake unit change for example) or an A check is due. I don't see it as an accountant thing at all, its simple good management. Why would you waste a highly trained, experienced, expensive and scarce LAME on such menial work?