10 Things to Consider When Hiring a Security Company

You’ve decided that you need to hire professional security, so what now?

 

 

How do you go about finding the right security company for you? At Churchill Security, we recognise that every business is different and will have different security requirements. When it comes to hiring a professional security company, we understand that there’s a lot to consider. Choosing your security provider is a big decision for your company; after all, they’ll be the ones protecting your site when you’re not there.  Knowing you can count on your security service should be the top priority when choosing your provider. But there’s also a lot of other things to consider. To help you make the right decision about your security future, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 things you should consider when hiring a security company.

 

1)      Are all their officers fully qualified and insured?

In order to carry out security services and ‘licensable activities’, security officers need to be fully SIA-qualified and hold an SIA licence. SIA, or the Security Industry Authority, is the Government regulatory body for the private security sectors. Practicing security guarding or hiring a security guard without the proper qualifications is against the law and can result in up to six months imprisonment or a hefty fine. You therefore want to ensure that your chosen security provider is 100% legitimate and that their officers are fully licensed. You should also make sure your provider is fully insured and has the correct level of cover that meets the needs of your property.

 

 

2)      Can they provide all the services you need?

To ensure your business gets the full protection it needs, you may need several different security services working in conjunction with each other. So you need a manned security service, night patrol and key holding? Finding a security supplier that provides all the services you need, in the combination you require will ensure you receive the best security solution for your site, and one that you’ll be 100% satisfied with. The first port of call would therefore be the company’s website or the customer service team to ensure they provide the comprehensive service you need. If you’re not confident they’re up to the job, make sure you shop around until you are.

 

 

3)       Do they prioritise customer service?

When looking for a security provider, you shouldn’t only look for what they provide but how they provide it. That’s to say that the level of customer service they provide is extremely important. Will your chosen supplier go above and beyond to make sure you’re happy with your service? Will they solve any issues you have quickly and efficiently? If your potential security provider offers all you need at a price you like but are infamous for their poor-quality customer service, keep on looking. Choosing a decent provider with a focus on customer service will avoid a lot of hassle down the line and ensure you’re 100% happy with your service.

 

 

4)      What do their customers say about them?

The best way to find out the inside scoop on your security company is by talking to existing customers. They’re an impartial voice that can help you reach an informed decision about your security future, away from company brochures and sales talks. Here, you could ask your business network for recommendations or alternatively look at customer reviews and testimonials. Online reviews are a useful resource for finding out information on their quality of service and other customer experiences. Most of us wouldn’t make a big purchase without looking at reviews first, so why should your security service be any different?

 

 

5)      Are their officers multi-skilled?

As we already mentioned, all security officers need to hold a full SIA licence to carry out security services. Beyond this, however, ask your potential provider what other skillsets they can offer. Investing in multi-trained officers could prove a cost-effective solution for your business. Do you require first-aid as well as security guarding services? Could you reduce your payroll by employing an officer who can do both?

 

 

6)      How much will it cost?

It’s easy to be won over by a sales pitch from your potential providers. They may be offering an incredible service at an incredible price, but buyer beware, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. When it comes to hiring security services, the cost will probably be one of your biggest considerations. No one likes an extra expense on their business, and it may be tempting to go for the cheapest service possible. The important thing to remember, however, is that security services should be very much quality-led rather than price-led. By investing a bit more money in your security, you can be sure that you’re receiving the best service possible, and that you won’t be forking out to cover the costs of crime in the future.

 

7)      What is their response rate?

So, you’ve narrowed your security options down and are now trying to get in touch with your potential provider to discuss the services you’ll need. If they’re difficult to get hold of and don’t respond to your emails in a timely manner, that’s definitely a red flag. Not only does this reflect badly on their general customer service, but it also sends a message that your business is not important to them. If they don’t respond now, when you could be about to spend a substantial sum of money, there’s very little chance that they’ll be interested or attentive when you have a problem that needs sorting.

 

 

8)      How much industry experience do they have?

Whilst new companies can provide quality security solutions and decent customer service, it may be worth considering investing in a security company with more industry experience. When you choose an experienced security provider, you can be sure that they’ve seen and done it all. This means you’re more likely to receive a more efficient service and better protection for your site.

 

 

9)      Is the company flexible enough for you?

Depending on your site requirements, you may wish to consider a security company that offers flexible options, such as short-term contracts, night watch security and emergency cover. If you’re unsure on when you might need to quickly scale up or down your security service, being locked into a long-term contract or not having the option to quickly obtain additional cover may not suit your business’s needs. On the other hand, if you require a regular service, then a long-term contract may be a better fit to ensure you have a steady security service in place. If your security provider can do both, then great! You’ll have peace of mind that they’re willing to adapt and grow with your changing security demands.

 

10)     Do they supply security technology solutions?

While traditional security guarding will always be a staple of the security industry, surveillance and security technology are constantly evolving to monitor and counter crime. Does your potential provider embrace technology or shy away from it? Although there’s nothing better than a human presence, technology certainly has a place in security. Products like CCTV and alarm systems can help defend your property against crime, especially when paired with traditional security services. By choosing a provider that actively invests in new technology, you can be sure that your site security is modern and up to date.

 

If you’re looking for the right security company that ticks all the boxes, why not try Churchill Security?  A leading supplier of professional security services such as Security Guards, CCTV & Event Security, Key Holding & Alarm Response, Mobile Patrols and Thermal Imaging & People Flow, we’re everything you’re looking for in a security company and more.

To find out more about how Churchill Security can protect your business, contact us today.

 

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