Requirements for Launching an Audit

To begin a compliance audit (SOC 2, ISO 27001, or C5), you need to reach at least 90% completion of all required compliance checks in the framework.

Audit Timeline

Different certifications have varying timelines:

• SOC 2 Type 2: 3 months observation period + 2-3 weeks for report writing

• ISO 27001: 3-4 weeks total (includes internal audit, certification audit, and report writing)

• C5 Type 2: Similar to SOC 2 timeline

For urgent needs, a Type 1 audit can be completed with just one day of observation plus report writing time.

Key Steps to Reach Audit Readiness

1. Complete Integration Checks

Address all automated checks for your cloud providers (AWS, GCP, Azure). These typically include:

• Security configurations

• Access controls

• Backup settings

• Network security

2. Complete Manual Checks

Common manual checks include:

• Risk Assessment review

• Access request/approval process documentation

• SSL/TLS certification verification

• Source control evidence

• Security event logging

• Architecture diagrams

• Board oversight documentation

3. Policy Management

1. Review and approve all required policies

2. Configure policy acknowledgement settings

3. Ensure team members acknowledge policies

Handling Incomplete Controls

If certain controls cannot be implemented immediately:

1. Document the current status

2. Provide a clear timeline for implementation

3. Add a justification for temporary exclusion

4. Ensure compensating controls are in place where possible

Next Steps After Reaching 90%

1. Notify your compliance team that you're ready for audit

2. Review any critical findings from security assessments

3. Prepare your team for potential auditor questions

4. Continue working on remaining controls during the observation period