When considering ISO certification for your business—whether it’s ISO 9001 for quality, ISO 14001 for environmental management, or ISO 27001 for information security—one of the first questions you’re likely to ask is: How much will an ISO consultant cost?
The answer varies depending on several factors, but this post breaks down what influences the cost and gives you a realistic idea of what to expect.
Typical ISO Consultant Rates in the UK
ISO consultants generally charge in one of three ways:
Daily Rate
Most ISO consultants charge a daily rate, which typically ranges from £600 to £1,200 per day.
Consultants with extensive industry experience or a strong track record may charge towards the higher end.
Niche standards or highly regulated industries can also push the rate up.
Fixed Project Fee
For specific certifications, some consultants offer a fixed project fee based on your organisation’s size and complexity. This might range from:
£3,000 to £8,000 for small to medium-sized businesses.
£10,000+ for large, multi-site organisations or those seeking multiple standards (e.g. ISO 9001 + ISO 14001).
Hourly Rate
Less common, but some consultants offer support on an hourly basis—typically around £100 to £150 per hour. This can be ideal for one-off audits or internal training sessions.
What Affects the Cost?
Several factors influence what you’ll pay for ISO consultancy:
Size and complexity of your business
A company with 10 employees and one site is far simpler to certify than a business with multiple departments, services, or locations.
Your current systems and processes
If you already have robust systems in place, the consultant will spend less time bridging gaps.
Internal involvement
The more you’re able to handle internally (documentation, audits, implementation), the fewer days you’ll need a consultant on-site.
Standard(s) required
ISO 9001 is the most common and generally the most cost-effective. ISO 27001 or industry-specific standards may require additional expertise and therefore higher fees.
What’s Included in the Price?
Most ISO consultancy packages include:
- Gap Analysis
- Documentation Support
- Proccess Development
- Staff Training
- Internal Audits
- Management Review Support
- Certification Body Liaison
Always clarify what’s included before committing. Some consultants also assist with finding an accredited certification body, but certification fees are separate and typically range from £1,000 to £3,000 depending on your provider.
Is It Worth It?
While the initial outlay may seem significant, hiring an ISO consultant can save you time, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure you’re truly ready for audit. More importantly, certification often leads to improved processes, increased customer trust, and new business opportunities—more than justifying the investment.
Final Thoughts
ISO consultant fees vary, but so does the value they bring. Look for a consultant who:
- Understands Your Industry
- Is Transparent About Costs
- Has Experience With Your Chosen Standard
- Offers Post-Certification Support
ISO certification isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about building better business practices. The right consultant will help you get there efficiently and effectively.
Need help finding the right ISO consultant or understanding costs?
Get in touch and we’ll be happy to talk you through your options.
