Changing certification bodies (CBs) doesn’t mean starting your ISO journey from scratch. If you’re already ISO-certified and looking to switch to a different certification body, whether for better service, pricing, or turnaround times, you’ll go through what’s called a Takeover Audit. Also known as a Certification Transfer, a Takeover Audit allows an accredited certification body to assume responsibility for your existing certification while maintaining its validity and integrity. It’s a straightforward process when approached correctly, but it does require some cooperation from your side.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Do Organisations Switch Certification Bodies?
There are several reasons why a business may want to change CBs:
- Better client service and support
- Issues with the current CB (e.g. delays, lack of communication, loss of accreditation)
- More competitive pricing
- Improved auditor experience and specialisation
Whatever the reason, the ISO framework allows for an orderly and structured transfer to another accredited body, as long as your current certificate is still valid and in good standing.
What Is a Takeover Audit?
A Takeover Audit is not a full re-certification. Instead, it is a verification process performed by the new certification body to confirm that your management system remains compliant and that there are no outstanding issues with your current certification.
The Takeover Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Initial Enquiry & Quotation
The new CB will ask you for basic information about your current certification to issue a quotation. This typically includes:
- Which ISO standard(s) you’re certified to
- Number of employees and sites
- Your most recent audit cycle stage (e.g. surveillance or recertification)
Step 2: Document Review
Once you accept the quotation, the CB will perform a document review. This often includes:
- A copy of your current valid ISO certificate
- Previous audit reports (typically last 1–2 years)
- Evidence that any nonconformities raised by the previous CB have been closed
- A record of complaints (if applicable)
- Proof that you have maintained your management system since the last audit
Step 3: Eligibility Check
The CB assesses whether your certification can be transferred without risk. Key considerations include:
- Is the certificate issued by an accredited CB (e.g. SANAS, UKAS)?
- Is the certificate valid and not suspended?
- Are there any unresolved major nonconformities?
Step 4: Takeover / Transfer Audi
If everything checks out, the new CB may:
- Accept the transfer without an on-site visit (in some cases), or
- Conduct a short transfer audit (often remote or partially on-site) to verify continued system effectiveness
Step 5: New Certificate Issued
Once the transfer audit is successfully completed, the new CB will issue a certificate that carries over your existing certification cycle. There’s no reset – your certification cycle (and recertification date) continues as normal.
What Do You Need to Provide?
To keep things moving efficiently, you should have the following ready:
- A copy of your current ISO certificate (with accreditation mark)
- Previous 1–2 years of audit reports
- Evidence of nonconformity closures
- Internal audit and management review records
- Any corrective actions or improvement plans underway
- A brief overview of your organisation (sites, employees, changes)
- Reason for transfer (if applicable)
How Long Does It Take?
Transfers are often faster than traditional audits. If documentation is readily available and there are no complications, you can typically receive your new certificate within 7–10 working days of submitting everything.
A Takeover Audit is a simple and cost-effective way to change certification bodies without disrupting your certification status. At Sancert, we aim to make the process smooth and stress-free, with fast document reviews, friendly auditors, and certificates issued in under two weeks.
If you’re considering switching to a certification body that offers faster service, detailed reporting, and real partnership – get in touch with us. We’ll guide you through the process and help you make the move with confidence.