Implementing and certifying an Information Security Management System (ISMS) in line with ISO 27001 is a critical step for modern organisations. It demonstrates a commitment to protecting sensitive information and building trust with customers and partners. However, navigating the landscape of ISO 27001 can be complex, especially when it comes to selecting the right partners. This guide is designed to help you understand and choose between the top ISO 27001 certification bodies and consulting companies. By providing independent insights and a breakdown of the leading providers, this article will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and ensure a smooth, effective path to certification.
Table of contents
- Quick Summary: Best ISO 27001 Certification Bodies at a Glance
- Top 5 ISO 27001 Companies Compared: Value vs. Expertise (2026)
- Top 5 ISO 27001 Toolkits Compared: Speed vs. Complexity (2026)
- How to Find an ISO 27001 Certification Body
- Key Criteria for Vetting an ISO 27001 Consultant
- Top UK ISO 27001 Certification Bodies
- A Note of Caution: The Shared Resource Model
- The 10 Best ISO 27001 Certification Bodies for 2026
- ISO 27001 Certification Body Archetypes
- The Framework for ISO 27001 Certification Body Selection
- Top 10 ISO 27001 Companies for 2026
- Why we believe High Table is the top choice
- ISO 27001 Certification Body Podcast – Navigating the Road to Compliance
- ISO 27001 Certification Body Briefing Pack
- ISO 27001 Certification Bodies FAQ
Quick Summary: Best ISO 27001 Certification Bodies at a Glance
Short on time? We have analysed the market to bring you this summary of the leading ISO 27001 certification providers. Review this breakdown to quickly identify which body aligns with your company size, budget, and brand requirements before diving into the full reviews.
| Certification Body | Est. Cost | Primary Focus / Differentiator | Benefits (Pros) | Cons (Trade-offs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. BSI Group | High / Premium | The “Gold Standard” & Brand Recognition | Market leader; High global trust; Badge carries significant prestige. | Most expensive option; Audit process can be rigid. |
| 2. Tempo Audits | Competitive (SME) | Small & Tech Businesses (Modern simplified journey) | Tailored for SMEs; Tech-founder led; Less bureaucratic. | Newer to market; Niche focus (less suited for large corporates). |
| 3. ISO27001•COM | Low / Efficient | Speed & Efficiency (7-day certification capability) | Fastest route to certificate; “Disruptor” cost model; Global reach. | Unconventional model; Brand is very new (2026). |
| 4. Centre for Assessment | Reasonable | Approachability & Customer Service | Friendly auditors; UKAS-accredited; Good quality-to-price ratio. | Lacks the “household name” status of BSI. |
| 5. British Assessment Bureau | Fixed Fee | Cost Transparency & Payment Plans | No hidden costs; Clear fixed fees; Flexible payment options. | Corporate feel (part of Amtivo); Pricing structure is rigid. |
- For Brand Prestige: Choose BSI. – https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/
- For Speed & Cost: Choose ISO27001•COM. – https://iso27001.com/
- For Small/Tech Businesses: Choose Tempo Audits. – https://www.tempoaudits.com/get-in-touch
- For Budget Certainty: Choose British Assessment Bureau. – https://amtivo.com/uk/contact-us/
Top 5 ISO 27001 Companies Compared: Value vs. Expertise (2026)
| Company | Est. Cost | ISO 27001:2022 Focus | Benefits (Pros) | Cons (Trade-offs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. High Table | Low / Efficient | Full Annex A (93 Controls) & Policies | Up to 10x faster implementation; 30x cheaper than consultants; Includes comprehensive templates. | Requires internal champion (DIY/Hybrid model). |
| 2. XpertDPO | Variable | Legal & Privacy Controls (e.g., 5.34) | Strong GDPR & ISO integration; Practical, tailor-made solutions. | Niche focus on Data Protection; Consultancy rates apply. |
| 3. DRB Compliance | Variable | Compliance Controls (e.g., 5.31, 5.32) | Growth mindset; Deep experience with FCA/Financial Services regulations. | Traditional consultancy model; May be overkill for non-regulated sectors. |
| 4. Advent IM | High / Premium | People & Org Controls (e.g., Clause 7, Annex A 6.x) | Mentoring-led approach (training staff); Qualified Lead Auditors; Bespoke service. | Premium day rates; Slower timeline than accelerators. |
| 5. iStorm | Variable | Technological Controls (e.g., Annex A 8.x) | Dual expertise in Cyber Essentials & ISO 27001; Strong technical security focus. | Less “productised” than High Table; Standard consultancy timeline. |
- High Table – https://hightable.io/contact/
- XpertDPO – https://xpertdpo.com/contact/
- DRB Compliance – https://www.drbcompliance.com/contact-us/
- Advent IM – https://www.advent-im.co.uk/contact-us/
- iStorm – https://istormsolutions.co.uk/contact-us/
Top 5 ISO 27001 Toolkits Compared: Speed vs. Complexity (2026)
| Toolkit Provider | Model | ISO 27001:2022 Mapping | Benefits (Pros) | Cons (Trade-offs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. High Table | One-Off / DIY | Full Annex A (93 Controls) | Verified by Lead Auditors; Competitive one-off fee; Includes 50+ templates & video guides. | Requires “DIY” effort; Not a software platform. |
| 2. CertiKit | One-Off / Sub | Full Annex A (93 Controls) | Massive library (215+ docs); Unlimited email support; Perpetual license options. | Can be overwhelming for SMEs; Higher initial price point. |
| 3. IT Governance | One-Off | Full Annex A (93 Controls) | Established market heritage; Deep integration with training courses. | Academic tone; Frequent upsells to consultancy. |
| 4. Advisera | One-Off / Training | Full Annex A (93 Controls) | Education-first approach (27001Academy); Excellent for deep learning. | Pricing usually in EUR/USD; Heavy focus on upskilling vs speed. |
| 5. ISO27001•COM | Hybrid | Full Annex A (93 Controls) | “Fast Track” focus; Modern disruptor approach; Simple implementation. | Newer to market; Less educational content than competitors. |
How to Find an ISO 27001 Certification Body
We found this one of the hardest aspects of engaging an ISO 27001 company. Actually finding one.
Using Google, we found we were presented with those companies that had the most budget to spend on ads. This is a competitive market and a lucrative market. Dominating the Google ads comes with advantages for the ISO 27001 company but for the consumer we find that can translate into higher prices.
Key Criteria for Vetting an ISO 27001 Consultant
This will depend a lot on what your requirements are.
It is our experience that the market is wide from sole traders all the way through the ISO 27001 factories and body shops. Each has its place. Working out what is right for you is the key.
It is our experience that being able to meet the ISO 27001 consultant that will do the work is a great step. It builds the relationship and the trust and can lead to a smoother overall engagement.
Top UK ISO 27001 Certification Bodies
It may not be necessary to go with a UK ISO 27001 company if you find a company that meets your needs. Often the work is done remotely and as such the actual location of the ISO 27001 company has less relevance.
A Note of Caution: The Shared Resource Model
When navigating the ISO 27001 marketplace, it’s important to be aware of the “shared resource” model. Many ISO 27001 consulting firms and certification bodies use the same pool of freelance consultants. These independent professionals work for various companies, meaning you could be engaging the same expert at a different price point simply based on who you hire.
This practice may or may not be a concern for your organization. If it is, we recommend you ask potential providers a direct question: “Do you employ your own staff or do you use third-party contractors?”
As a provider of ISO 27001 services ourselves, we want to be transparent that our list is not entirely independent. While we are featured, we have provided this list to empower you with choice. Inclusion on this list does not constitute an endorsement by High Table, nor does it come with any guarantees or warranties. We strongly advise that you conduct your own due diligence before engaging any company.
Now, let’s explore our top 10 ISO 27001 companies, updated for 2026, along with our pick for the best ISO 27001 company of the year.
The 10 Best ISO 27001 Certification Bodies for 2026
1. BSI
The BSI are an ISO 27001 certification company and considered by many to be the gold standard. It comes at a cost and the certificate is the same product but if badges are your thing, then one from these guys will go a long way.
Whether you’re starting your business improvement journey, or looking to enhance current knowledge and capabilities, contact our expert team who will be able to give advice and guidance about options that will enable you to meet your goals.
2. Tempo Audits
The new kids on the block as a new ISO 27001 certification body targeting small business and tech business. Good and industry awards.
Tempo Audits was created by a tech founder with one mission: to simplify the compliance journey for modern companies.
We understand your challenges, and we’ll make the process as easy as possible along the way.
Contact Tempo Audits and quote High Table:
3. ISO27001•COM
ISO27001•COM – ISO 27001 Certification Body provide assured ISO 27001 certification in as little as 7 days using their unique fast track model. A new global certification body entered the market in 2026 and fast establishing a presence.
4. Centre for Assessment Limited
We have experience of Centre for Assessment auditors and find them approachable and easy to work with. Costings appear reasonable.
Ensure that every form of information you hold is protected and secure.
As the internationally-recognised Information Security Management System Standard, ISO 27001 will help you meet contractual requirements.
Wherever you are based, Centre for Assessment can provide you with a robust, UKAS-accredited certification audit.
5. British Assessment Bureau
They are technically – Amtivo Group Limited trading as British Assessment Bureau and Certification Europe
The cost of your ISO 27001 certification will be quoted on a fixed fee basis, reducing your worry about additional costs.
The cost of certification will depend on:
- your organisation’s total size
- the sector you operate in
- the number of locations you operate from.
We always provide a fixed fee with no hidden costs to worry about. We also offer a variety of payment plans to suit your budget. Contact us today for a quote.
6. A-lign
A certification body that comes at a price. One of the most expensive certification bodies we have come across on the market today, especially for the ISO 27001 UK market.
As an accredited ISO 27001 certification body, A-LIGN has helped hundreds of organisations meet their ISO certification needs. We can help you too.
7. NQA Certification Ltd
A certification body for which we have not had any experience. A quick Google and there were no obvious reviews. On the list for completeness.
We provide independent certification and training for a range of Information Security standards. Our services help you to manage the ongoing development of technology and mitigate the risk associated with data and information.
8. Alcumus ISOQAR Limited
According to their website they are ANAB accredited. We found it difficult to find any reviews online and they are not a body we have experience on but they are on the list as they seem popular.
ISOQAR has an enviable record for customer satisfaction for its certification services. A friendly, practical and straightforward approach has led to continual steady growth through referrals from contented clients and management consultants. ISOQAR only employs auditors that have empathy with this approach. They are also carefully allocated by their experience in the industry they are auditing. This results in a practical, meaningful audit, carried out in an air of mutual understanding. ISOQAR firmly believes that its audits should ‘add value’ and benefit the organisation being audited.
9. LRQA Limited
Our auditors are well-versed in assessing against ISO 27001, helping you to ensure that your information security systems align with the latest requirements and guidelines. We go beyond providing certification services with our industry-leading training programmes which have been designed to upskill your team.
10. SGS United Kingdom Limited
With years of worldwide experience in information security, cybersecurity and privacy protection, we can help you along the path to certification with an ISO/IEC 27001 certification audit. Your audit can include a gap assessment and benchmarking. We will determine your level of information security competence and provide advice on how to achieve ongoing improvement.
ISO 27001 Certification Body Archetypes
Different ISO 27001 certification bodies meet different specific needs.
- The Gold Standard: BSI Group
- The Disruptor: ISO27001•COM
- The Specialist: Tempo Audits
The Framework for ISO 27001 Certification Body Selection
The following is the decision tree and process for selecting the right ISO 27001 certification body for you.
If your primary driver is:
- Brand Prestige and Market Leadership – choose the BSI
- Speed to Market and Cost Efficiency – choose ISO27001•COM
- In House Skill Development – choose Advent IM
- Specialist Regulatory Support – choose XpertDPO
Top 10 ISO 27001 Companies for 2026
1. High Table
High Table’s revolutionary process gets clients ISO 27001 certification up-to 30x cheaper, 10x faster. They offer a range of options from unique individual ISO 27001 templates, the exclusive ISO 27001 template toolkits that are used by business and ISO 27001 professionals who want to save time and money and do it themselves to their structured 6 step process. It is the amount of free resources, ISO 27001 YouTube Channel and unique templates that sets them apart. We are a little biased but the number 1 ISO 27001 company would be High Table: The ISO 27001 Company.
2. XpertDPO
XpertDPO is a data security, governance, risk and compliance, GDPR and ISO consultancy that offers practical, tailor-made solutions.
We are one of the leading providers of Outsourced Data Protection Officer Services in Europe. We also specialise in offering Nominated European Representative Services to non EU based organisations.
3. DRB Compliance
Compliance with the FCA regulations is often seen as a business prevention tool. At DRB Compliance Limited, we believe that with the right approach, integrating compliance into everything you do will help your business grow.
Each business is different and there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ solution. We work closely with each of our clients to ensure the service we provide is perfectly tailored to their individual needs.
DRB Compliance Limited was formed to help you embrace, implement and ultimately benefit from compliance.
4. Advent IM
‘We have a proven track record in taking companies through the process to successful accreditation. But where our approach differs is that we don’t believe one size fits all. Every organisation has its own objectives and ways of working and we provide bespoke, proportionate solutions that meet your needs. And we don’t just do the work and walk away. We mentor staff through key aspects of the implementation to ensure they have the necessary skills to maintain the management system as the organisation grows and changes.
Our consultants are qualified ISO 27001 Lead Auditors with many years’ experience of delivering information security services and implementing information security management systems.’
5. iStorm
We can help you achieve and maintain compliance with the industry and international standards such as the Government Cyber Essentials scheme and ISO 27001 so that you can demonstrate your commitment to good cyber security and information security practices.
6. Bridewell
ISO 27001 is the internationally recognised standard for having an effective Information Security Management System (ISMS).
Bridewell Consulting provide various levels of support, help and training to organisations who need to have ISO 27001:2013 certification.
7. Cognisys
We can assist you in the attainment of ISO 27001 by identifying where you are and what you need to do to gain accreditation.
8. Re-alitek
Our team can provide the tools, documentation and expertise needed to fast track your organisation towards certification.
Working flexibly, in either a consultative or implementation role, allows us to work with a range of organisations regardless of size, expertise or resource.
9. Hanjo Consultants
We work with clients addressing ISO compliance for the first time, and; work with established clients who are on a growth trajectory and need guidance and an independent review before being audited.
10. Vorago Securtiy
We provide a little or as much help as you need and can help you no matter where you are in your journey. We have designed a modular system so if you decide you need more assistance we can discount what has already been spent with us to help you make the next step.
A Tough List To Create
I am not going to lie to you. This was a really hard list to come up with. I never thought it would this hard.
The majority of ISO 27001 companies in the UK and worldwide are either one man bands with no website or small early boutique ISO 27001 consultancies with absolutely shocking websites that tell you nothing about what they are going to do for you for ISO 27001.
I think that is why no one has ever created a top 10 list of ISO 27001 companies before.
If you can recommend a decent company I am more than open to changing the list. Just contact me.
Why we believe High Table is the top choice
The best ISO 27001 company 2026 is High Table Global. The absolute go to company for all things ISO 27001, ISO 27001 specialists and home of the ISO 27001 Lead Auditor.
ISO 27001 Certification Body Podcast – Navigating the Road to Compliance
Learn how to navigate ISO 27001 from choosing partners to the right ISO 27001 certification body for you. Insights from ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Stuart Barker on the 2026 landscape and options.
ISO 27001 Certification Body Briefing Pack
ISO 27001 Certification Body: Executive Briefing Pack
ISO 27001 Certification Bodies FAQ
How do I choose between a “Gold Standard” and “Disruptor” body?
Your choice depends on your commercial goals:
- Choose “Gold Standard” (BSI/LRQA): If your clients are governments, banks, or defense contractors. They recognize the “BSI” badge instantly and associate it with maximum rigor. Expect to pay a premium (30-50% higher).
- Choose a “Disruptor” (Tempo/ISO27001•com): If you are a SaaS/Tech company needing speed and cost-efficiency. These bodies use modern tech to audit faster, often costing significantly less, while still providing full UKAS/ANAB accreditation.
What is the difference between an ISO 27001 “Company” and a “Certification Body”?
It is critical not to confuse the two:
- ISO 27001 Company (e.g., High Table): These are Implementation Partners. We help you build the system, write the policies, and prepare for the audit (Consultancy/Toolkits). We cannot issue the certificate.
- Certification Body (e.g., BSI, NQA): These are Auditors. They mark your homework and issue the certificate. They cannot help you build the system (conflict of interest).
Best Practice: You need both. Use a company like High Table to prepare, then hire a Body like NQA to audit.
What is the “Shared Resource Model” risk?
The Shared Resource Model is where different certification bodies hire from the same pool of freelance contractors.
- The Risk: You might hire a “Premium” brand expecting a staff auditor, but get a freelancer who also works for a “Budget” brand.
- The Fix: Ask your potential supplier: “Are your auditors full-time employees (PAYE) or contractors?” Bodies with full-time staff generally offer more consistent auditing styles and better long-term support.
Is it worth paying extra for a UKAS/ANAB accredited certificate?
Yes, almost always.
- Accredited: Regulated by the government-backed board (UKAS in UK, ANAB in US). This is the only certificate accepted in formal tenders, government contracts, and by enterprise procurement teams.
- Non-Accredited: Unregulated. While cheaper and faster, it is essentially a “participation trophy.” If a big client checks your certificate and sees it isn’t accredited, they may reject it, forcing you to pay for the whole process again.
Why are Fixed-Price quotes better than Variable Day Rates?
Fixed-price quotes give you cost certainty.
- Variable Quotes: Often used by traditional bodies (BSI, SGS). They bill by the day. If the auditor works slowly or you need a re-audit, the price goes up.
- Fixed-Price Quotes: Often used by modern bodies (British Assessment Bureau, ISO27001•com). They give a single cost for the certification cycle.
Tip: Always ask if “Stage 1” repeats or “Travel Expenses” are included in the fixed price to avoid hidden fees.
What is included in the “Daily Rate” vs. “Management Fee”?
When comparing quotes, ensure you aren’t comparing apples to oranges.
- Daily Rate: The fee for the auditor’s time on-site/remote (typically $1,200–$1,800/day).
- Management/Application Fees: Some bodies charge an annual “file maintenance” fee ($500–$2,000) just to keep your certificate active.
- Deal Breaker: Ask if the “Stage 1” documentation review is a fixed price or billed hourly. Fixed is safer.
Can I use a remote-only certification body?
It depends on your scope.
- Yes: If your business is digital (Software, Consultancy, Finance) and your physical office is just desks. Remote auditing is now the industry standard for these sectors.
- No: If you have physical security risks (Data Centers, Manufacturing, Secure Storage). The auditor must visit on-site to check physical controls (CCTV, perimeter fences).
Can we transfer our ISO 27001 certificate to a new provider mid-cycle?
Yes, and it is usually free.
- The Process: You can transfer your certificate to a new Accredited Certification Body at any time, provided you have no outstanding “Major Non-Conformities.”
- The “Hook”: Most new providers will waive the transfer fee to win your business for the remaining 2 years of the cycle.
What happens if we fail the Stage 1 audit?
Technically, you cannot “fail” Stage 1—it is a readiness review. However, if the auditor finds “Areas of Concern” that are essentially blockers:
- Scenario A: You fix them quickly (no extra cost).
- Scenario B: You are so unprepared that a re-audit is required (you will pay for those extra days).
Pro Tip: Ask your Certification Body: “Do you charge for a repeat Stage 1 if we are not ready, or can we just pause the timeline?”
What critical questions should I ask a supplier?
Use this checklist during your sales call:
- “What are your lead times for booking Stage 2 dates?” (Avoid 6-month waits. Strategy: Smaller, agile certification bodies often win business purely on availability).
- “Can you combine our ISO 27001 audit with ISO 9001 or SOC 2?” (Integrated audits save ~20-30% on audit days).
- “Are your auditors full-time employees or contractors?” (Full-time employees offer more consistency).
- “Does your quote include the UKAS/ANAB levy fees?” (Ensure the Total Cost includes Application Fee + Audit Days + Travel + Accreditation Levies + Admin Fees).
