GDPR compliance checklist proposal: Free template

Customize this free GDPR compliance checklist proposal with Cobrief

Open this free GDPR compliance checklist proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your legal or compliance scope, the client’s industry, and their current risk exposure. You can also use AI to review your draft — flag vague sections, identify missing steps, and improve clarity before sending.

Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.

This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use — ideal for offering GDPR audits, startup compliance checks, or data protection readiness services. Whether you're a legal advisor, DPO, or privacy consultant, this proposal gives you a structured way to outline your value and close work efficiently.

What is a GDPR compliance checklist proposal?

A GDPR compliance checklist proposal outlines how you’ll assess a business’s data protection posture against the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). It includes your review process, scope, deliverables, and pricing — and is typically shared before an audit or consultation begins.

This type of proposal is used by privacy professionals, legal consultants, and compliance advisors to help businesses meet their GDPR obligations. It’s relevant for startups, ecommerce platforms, SaaS companies, and any organization handling EU personal data.

Unlike a generic legal retainer, this proposal is focused on a defined outcome: helping the client understand their current compliance status and what actions they need to take to improve it.

Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal

• Edit the full proposal instantly: No uploading or reformatting — just click and customize.
• Use AI to tailor language: Adjust tone and detail based on client size, industry, or data practices.
• Run a full AI-powered review: Spot unclear sections, missing steps, or legal overreach before sending.
• Accept changes in one click: Apply all edits automatically or section-by-section.
• Save, send, or download: Export your finished proposal as a clean, ready-to-send document.

When to use this proposal

• When offering a GDPR compliance review to a business that handles EU customer data
• When following up after a discovery call with a startup or DTC brand seeking compliance guidance
• When bundling a checklist review into broader privacy consulting or legal retainer work
• When responding to inbound inquiries from businesses preparing for audits or investor due diligence
• When helping clients prepare internal documentation for GDPR accountability

What to include in a GDPR compliance checklist proposal

• Project overview: Summarize the goal of the checklist review — such as assessing GDPR readiness, identifying gaps, or supporting internal compliance documentation. Tailor this to reflect the client’s current data practices and risk level.
• Scope of work: List the specific items you’ll review — e.g., privacy policy, data processing records, consent mechanisms, DPA agreements, and internal procedures. Clarify whether you’ll conduct interviews, review documents, or deliver written recommendations.
• Timeline: Provide a clear timeline from kickoff to final delivery. Include milestones like document requests, review sessions, and presentation of findings.
• Deliverables: Specify what the client will receive — such as a completed checklist, risk summary, prioritized action list, and optional remediation support.
• Pricing: Present your pricing clearly — as a flat fee, phased rate, or bundled with other compliance services. Note what’s included and whether follow-up support or implementation is billed separately.
• Call to action / next steps: Close with a clear CTA — e.g., approve the proposal, confirm a kickoff date, or submit initial documents. Keep the tone professional and proactive.

How to write an effective GDPR compliance checklist proposal

• Speak to real risk: Emphasize that this review helps reduce legal, financial, and reputational exposure.
• Tailor based on client type: Startups may need lightweight checklists, while mature companies may require detailed reviews.
• Define the checklist clearly: Outline what’s being assessed and how — avoid being vague about methodology.
• Balance clarity and credibility: Write in plain language but include enough legal depth to inspire trust.
• Set clear boundaries: Clarify what’s advisory versus what constitutes legal representation or implementation work.
• End with momentum: Always include a confident and actionable next step.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)