7 questions to ask before hiring a security company
Every security company says it is reliable. These seven questions show you which ones mean it.
1. Are you licensed in this state?
In New York, a security guard company needs a license from the Department of State. Ask for the license number and check it. Ours is NY #11000223084, and we are also licensed in New Jersey and Florida.
2. Are your officers registered and trained?
New York guards must hold a security guard registration card and complete state required training, including pre-assignment, on the job and annual courses. Ask how the company tracks it and whether officers carry their cards on post.
3. What insurance do you carry?
Ask for a certificate of insurance before the first shift, and ask to be named as an additional insured if your venue or landlord requires it.
4. Who supervises on site and after hours?
Find out who checks on officers during the shift and who you call when you have a problem. A good answer is a name and a number, not a general inbox.
5. What happens if an officer does not show?
No shows happen in every company. What matters is how fast a replacement arrives and who tells you. Ask for the plan.
6. How do you report incidents?
Ask to see a sample incident report and how quickly you receive it. Clear written reports protect you if something ends up with insurance or in court.
7. Have you done work like ours?
Ask for examples and references from similar venues or events. Experience with your kind of crowd, building or client matters more than size.
This article is general information, not legal or fire code advice. Requirements change, so confirm the details for your site with the agency named or with us before you rely on them.