The verdict in three sentences
A complete security audit (pentest + OWASP review) for a B2B web application in Berlin costs between EUR 6,000 and EUR 20,000 in 2026, vulnerability report and verification re-test included. The timeline is 2 to 5 weeks depending on scope. It is often the key to signing a large account that demands proof of GDPR and ISO 27001 compliance.
What a security audit covers in 2026
A serious audit is not just an automated scan. It combines automated and manual testing, real exploitation of flaws, business-logic analysis and prioritised recommendations. The price depends on scope, depth (black, grey or white box) and the target certification level.
| Audit type | Scope | Timeline | Price EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scan + quick review | Simple application | 1-2 weeks | 3,500 - 6,000 |
| Standard OWASP pentest | Mid-size B2B app | 2-3 weeks | 6,000 - 12,000 |
| In-depth pentest | Critical app + API | 3-5 weeks | 12,000 - 20,000 |
| Audit + ISO compliance | Certification target | 5-8 weeks | 20,000 - 40,000 |
A senior pentester's day rate in Berlin sits between EUR 600 and 900 in 2026. A standard pentest represents 8 to 15 person-days, including reconnaissance, exploitation, report writing and the re-test after fixes.
One-off audit or continuous bug bounty: which to choose
Two models coexist. The one-off audit gives a snapshot at a point in time; the bug bounty (via YesWeHack, HackerOne) offers continuous monitoring but at a variable cost.
| Criterion | One-off audit | Continuous bug bounty |
|---|---|---|
| Annual cost | EUR 6,000 - 20,000 | EUR 15,000 - 60,000 |
| Time coverage | Point in time | Permanent |
| Report for clients | Formal, actionable | Variable |
| Fit for compliance | Yes (GDPR, ISO) | Complement |
| Management effort | Low | Continuous (triage) |
| Best for | Contractual proof | Mature, exposed product |
For an SME that must prove its security before signing a contract, the one-off audit with a formal report and re-test is the right choice. Bug bounty becomes worthwhile once the product is mature, heavily exposed, and the security team can process reports continuously.
Mini case study
Elodie, CIO of an HR SaaS scale-up in Berlin (35 employees), had to provide proof of a security audit to sign with a large industrial group. The contract was worth EUR 180,000/year. Without proof, the tender was blocked.
She ordered a standard OWASP pentest at EUR 9,500, delivered in 3 weeks with a re-test included. Three critical vulnerabilities were fixed before signing. Audit cost relative to the contract: 5.3% of that client's annual revenue. The contract was signed, and the report reused for two other tenders the same year.
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FAQ
How much does a web security audit cost in 2026?
A standard OWASP pentest for a B2B application in Berlin costs between EUR 6,000 and 12,000. An in-depth audit with a critical API rises to EUR 20,000.
Is the re-test after fixes included?
In a serious audit, yes: a verification re-test is generally included to confirm that critical vulnerabilities have been properly fixed. Check this in the quote.
What timeline for a full pentest?
Expect 2 to 5 weeks depending on scope, including reconnaissance, testing, report writing and re-test.
One-off audit or bug bounty?
For contractual proof and GDPR/ISO 27001 compliance, the one-off audit (EUR 6,000 to 20,000) is the right choice. Bug bounty (EUR 15,000 to 60,000/year) suits mature, heavily exposed products.
Does an audit help with ISO 27001 certification?
Yes, it is an essential part of the file. An audit with a full compliance component costs EUR 20,000 to 40,000 but strongly accelerates certification.
Let's scope your project. Tell us your application size, whether APIs are involved and the contractual requirement to meet: we will price the right audit with re-test included. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
