ISO 27001 certification is fast becoming a must-have for businesses that want to win bigger contracts, demonstrate commitment to data security, and keep regulators happy. But once you’ve achieved certification, how long does it last—and what does it take to keep it?
Let’s break it down.
Why ISO 27001 Is Worth It
Getting certified under ISO 27001 means your business has put in place a robust Information Security Management System (ISMS). It’s not just about ticking compliance boxes—it’s about safeguarding your data, improving resilience, and showing partners and clients that you take their security seriously.
For companies in sectors like recruitment, tech, or professional services—especially those working with sensitive data or within regulated environments—ISO 27001 can be the key to:
- Winning new business
- Retaining customer trust
- Meeting legal and regulatory obligations (think GDPR)
- Reducing the risk of costly data breaches
But it’s not a “one and done” process.
So, How Long Does ISO 27001 Certification Last?
Three years.
That’s how long your ISO 27001 certification remains valid once you’ve passed the initial audit. However, you’ll need to prove you’re maintaining your ISMS every year through surveillance audits, and you’ll need a full recertification audit after those three years are up.
Here’s what that looks like:
Yearly Surveillance Audits
Each year, an accredited auditor will review your ISMS to make sure you’re still upholding the ISO 27001 standard. They’ll check:
- Whether your policies and procedures are still being followed
- If past issues have been resolved
- How well you’re responding to new risks and operational changes
These audits are less intense than the initial certification, but don’t underestimate them—fail to pass one, and your certification could be suspended or revoked if issues aren’t fixed promptly.
Recertification Every 3 Years
At the end of the three-year cycle, your business must undergo a recertification audit—essentially a repeat of the original process. This is a thorough reassessment of your entire ISMS.
To prepare, you’ll need to:
- Run regular internal audits
- Keep your documentation updated
- Review and improve your controls
- Make sure your team is trained and ready
What Happens if You Don’t Maintain Certification?
Losing your ISO 27001 certification doesn’t just mean a compliance slip-up—it can have a ripple effect across your business:
- Lost contracts (some clients require certification to do business with you)
- Reduced credibility in your industry
- Increased regulatory risk, especially under GDPR
- Higher costs to regain compliance and re-certify later
In short, it’s far better to keep your certification in good standing than to let it lapse and start over.
What Does It Cost to Maintain ISO 27001?
Like most compliance programmes, maintaining ISO 27001 requires a blend of time, money, and people. Key costs to factor in include:
- Surveillance audits – typically conducted annually, with costs depending on your organisation’s size and scope.
- Recertification audits – more extensive and therefore more costly than annual audits.
- Internal resourcing – from documentation to training and process reviews, it all takes time.
- Tools or consultants – many businesses choose to work with compliance experts or automation platforms to stay on track.
While these costs are ongoing, they’re small compared to the financial and reputational damage a data breach—or failed audit—can cause.
3 Tips for Easier ISO 27001 Maintenance
Maintaining ISO 27001 compliance doesn’t have to be a chore. Here’s how to keep things manageable:
1. Embed Security in Your Culture
Make information security part of everyone’s job—not just IT’s. Run regular, role-specific training to keep your team aware and prepared.
2. Automate Where You Can
From policy tracking to risk assessments, there are tools that can save time and reduce the risk of manual errors. Look for platforms that integrate with your current systems.
3. Get Expert Support
If you don’t have in-house capacity to manage audits and improvements, consider partnering with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) that specialises in compliance—like Dial A Geek.
Is It Worth Staying Certified?
Absolutely. ISO 27001 is more than a badge—it’s a statement of intent. It shows clients, partners, and regulators that you’re serious about protecting data and delivering services securely.
At Dial A Geek, we help businesses achieve and maintain ISO 27001 compliance through our Protect & Grow Managed Service plans. That means we don’t just help you pass the audit—we make sure your IT is working securely and efficiently every day.
Need Help Staying ISO 27001 Compliant?
We’ve helped over 1,000 businesses in Bristol and across the UK reduce risk, win more contracts, and sleep easier knowing their data’s safe.
Book a call with Gildas Jones today to find out how we can support your ISO 27001 journey and keep you compliant for the long haul.