When you employ a security company, you are putting your security into their care. It’s not merely about having someone stand by a gate or patrol around your grounds. It’s about believing in them, your security, and having peace of mind.
A quality security company can head off trouble before it starts. They can guard your property, keep people safe, and react rapidly in emergencies.
But if you get the wrong security company, the outcome is expensive. Bad guards, slow response, and no good insurance can cause problems.
At Securycor Ltd, we want to give customers the right information to choose well. This guide will show you the 10 most important things to check before hiring a security company. We have also included tips, examples, and questions to ask prior to signing any agreement.
What Can Go Wrong with the Wrong Choice
The wrong security company may be hired. The problems individuals encounter are:
Inexperienced security guards: They won’t know how to respond in an emergency.
No SIA licence: Which is a criminal offence in the UK.
Poor attendance – Security officers failing to arrive at work on time, or at all.
Poor communication – No feedback, no reports, no response.
No insurance cover: You foot the bill for the damages.
Example: A shop in Milton Keynes employed a budget security firm. One of the guards took a cigarette break during the night shift. Shoplifters took advantage and stole hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of goods. The owner had no recourse in law since the company did not have insurance.
The moral: Verify qualifications, insurance, and reputation before employment.
Step-by-Step Process for Employment of a Security Company
Before we go over the 10 checks, here is a straightforward process that you can follow:
Work out your needs – Do you require event security, mobile patrol, or 24/7 guarding?
Research companies – Check websites, reviews, and word of mouth.
Check their licences – All UK guards must have an SIA licence.
Ask for proof of insurance – And that it’s valid.
Ask for references – Talk to previous or current clients.
Discuss training: Are guards getting regular skills updates?
Get a detailed quote – Specify the price.
Meet them in person – Be professional.
Check their Technology – Do they use state-of-the-art security equipment?
Trust your instincts: If it feels wrong, go with someone else.
10 Things to Check Before Hiring a Security Company
Their Experience
The more experienced a firm is, the better they are able to adapt to anything. A firm that has been in business for years has had small accidents and colossal crises.
Some questions to ask:
How long have you been in business?
Did you previously work in my line of work?
Can you give me some examples of comparable work?
Example: If you have a warehouse, you need a security company that can check cars, watch at night, and keep your things safe.
Their Licences
As a rule in the UK, all security guards need to have an SIA licence. This license ensures that they have been trained, police-checked, and certified to work.
Tip: Request a number for their licence and check it online via the SIA register. Never believe someone.
Their Reputation
Reputation is a fair measure of quality. Look up reviews online, read about their testimonials, and check whether they have any awards or certifications.
Red flags:Most reviews mention lateness.
Customers complain about unprofessional conduct.
No web presence whatsoever.
Bonus tip: Excellent organizations like Securycor Ltd are happy to share their feedback publicly.
Their Training Standards
Security isn’t just about guarding. It’s about observation skills, communication skills, and conflict management skills.
Good training would include:
Conflict management
Fire safety
Customer service
Emergency evacuation
Example: A trained guard can defuse an aggressive individual without having to use force, thus keeping everyone safe.
The Services They Provide
Some companies provide only manned guarding. Others, such as Securycor Ltd, provide a complete list:
Alarm response
Key holding
Event security
Why it is necessary: One company provides all services on one contract, saving time and increasing consistency.
Insurance Cover They Offer
Security work is risky. You may inadvertently do damage to property, or someone may get hurt, if something happens. Insurance will save you from having to pay for such expenses.
Tip: See if they have public liability and employer’s liability insurance. Ask for the certificate.
Their Pricing
Low prices mean low work. Although you should compare quotes, look at value, not price.
Example: A lower-priced company might have cheaper employees, resulting in poor morale and service.
Their Communication
Good security companies inform you. They call you promptly in case of an emergency, answer your calls, and check up on you from time to time.
Tip: Test how they communicate before you hire them. Ask them how long they take to answer phone calls and emails.
Their Technology
Advanced security uses human and electronic equipment. The best firms use equipment like:
GPS patrol tracking
Body-worn cameras
Alarm systems
CCTV monitoring centres
Benefit: Technology offers faster response times and better evidence if anything happens.
Your Instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. If the company is not professional during hiring, they will likely be worse once you sign on the line.
Signs a Security Company is Not Right for You
Guards are late to a test shift.
They do not want to offer evidence of a licence or insurance.
They are unable to provide references.
They do not want to answer particular questions.
Their agreement is not as detailed.
Benefits of a Regional Security Firm
They familiarise themselves with the location and local danger.
They are able to attend an incident quicker.
Less complicated to meet in person.
They are likely to have improved relations with regional police.
For example, Securycor Ltd is in Milton Keynes and nearby areas, so customers get help faster.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
How do you train your guards?
What is your typical guard response time?
Can I meet the guards who will be on my premises?
How do you handle emergencies?
What Technology do you deploy to assist your guards?
Conclusion
Choosing the right security company is important for safety. Look for trained staff, licences, good communication, and modern tools.
At Securycor Ltd, we give clear updates, have skilled guards, and work to earn your trust. We don’t just give security—we give peace of mind. If you need safe and trained guards in Milton Keynes or nearby, we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I guarantee a good security company?
Look at their experience, licences, and testimonials. Ask them for references and meet them face-to-face.
Do all security guards need an SIA licence?
Yes, in the UK it’s the law. To work without one is illegal.
Do I have to use a local security company?
Yes, they’re local. They can get to you faster.
What is the average cost of security services?
It depends, but think about value, not price. Always receive a plain written quote.
Are security guards permitted to detain people?
Yes, but only until the police get there. They have to obey the law.