How to choose an ISO certification body

Confirm the requirement first

Ask which standard, edition, activities and locations the certificate must cover. Check whether the contract specifies accredited certification or a particular accreditation arrangement.

ISO publishes standards and does not issue certificates. Your consultant can support preparation; an independent certification body assesses the system and makes the certification decision.

Check accreditation and its scope

For UKAS-accredited certification, use the UKAS directory to find the certification body and inspect its accreditation details. Check the relevant standard and technical scope, rather than relying only on a logo.

UKAS CertCheck helps verify claims of UKAS-accredited management-system certification. If another accreditation arrangement is proposed, confirm that it satisfies your customer’s requirement.

Ask practical questions

• Can the body cover your standard, sector, activities and sites?
• What information does it need to prepare its assessment proposal?
• How are assessment stages, dates and any remote activities agreed?
• How are findings reported and follow-up actions handled?
• What are the ongoing assessment, transfer and cancellation arrangements?

Ask how the proposed assessment team’s competence fits your business. Clear answers help you prepare your people and understand the work involved.

Compare the full proposal

Review initial and ongoing fees, travel, taxes, follow-up charges and contract terms. A lower initial quote may cover a different scope. Our certification cost guide gives you a structure for the comparison.

Keep preparation support and the independent assessment decision distinct. We can help your team organise evidence and prepare through external assessment support.