The Beginner’s Guide to Hiring California Commercial Security Guards

Every type of business in California stands to gain from hiring commercial security guards. Yet the stakes can feel even higher if you’re trying to improve security measures for your commercial building or construction site, where vandalism, trespassing, and other security risks are common.

Don’t hire just any California security guard company to protect your commercial property. Our beginner’s guide to hiring commercial security guards in California explains everything you need to know, from licensing and legal considerations to budgeting and avoiding common pitfalls.

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How to Hire Commercial Security Guards in California

Professional guards in California must be licensed and have a valid guard card in order to work.

However, different security guards undergo different, specialized training. Make sure you’re looking for guards who have the background and experience to address your specific security challenges.

Benefits of Hiring Commercial Security in California

Most commercial security guard companies in California offer the following basic security services in addition to customized security solutions:

• Thorough risk assessments of the building and/or property
• Improved access control
• Fast detection of potential threats and suspicious activity
• Stronger protection of valuables, property, staff, and customers
• Efficient crowd control
• Fire watch protection
• Ongoing safety and security assessments
• Faster emergency response times

If you also need alarm system monitoring or installation, K9 protection, or executive protection, for example, you’ll need to look for companies that offer those additional services.

Legal Considerations When Hiring Security Guards

As a business owner, you always need to consider the legal implications of rolling out new commercial security solutions. Be aware of the potential liability issues and insurance requirements you’ll need to meet.

For example, if you hire security guards as employees at your business, the state of California requires you to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Similarly, if you hire security guards as contractors, you may need to purchase liability insurance coverage for them if they don’t have their own. If you have a commercial lease agreement, you may be required to carry a certain amount of coverage for security staff.

It’s also important to know if there are any local or other regulations your security guards may be subject to in your county or municipality, including appropriate use of force guidelines.

Other Questions to Ask When Hiring California Security Services

Here are some other questions to consider when hiring security guards to defend your commercial property or business.

Do I Need Armed or Unarmed Security?

Armed security guards have extensive firearms training, and many are ex-law enforcement with prior experience handling weapons. While unarmed security guards are enough for most institutions or businesses, armed guards can provide an extra layer of security. Consider hiring armed guards if you have high-value items on site or your property is located in a high-crime area.

Learn More: The Pros and Cons of Hiring an Unarmed vs. Armed Security Guard

Do I Need 24/7 Security?

Some commercial properties require around-the-clock protection, while others only need protection during hours of operation or after hours. 24/7 security is ideal, but another option is to hire part-time guards while using video surveillance cameras and alarm systems for continuous site monitoring and protection.

Should I Have K9 Security?

K9 security officers have extensive training and work closely with trained dogs to provide an even greater level of protection. Consider hiring K9 protection if your commercial property is at an increased risk for drug activity, bombings, or other unique security threats.

Learn More: Your Guide to Hiring K9 Security Services in California

Should I Hire Executive Protection?

As a business owner or C-suite executive, you might want to consider hiring personal security guard services for yourself and/or your family. Many high-profile individuals add bodyguard services to their overall security plan to enjoy the highest level of safeguarding.

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How to Budget for Commercial Security Services in California

When putting a comprehensive security plan in place, consider all factors that may affect pricing, including the cost of armed vs. unarmed guards, the hours you need them to patrol, and the frequency and type of criminal activity in the area where your business is located.

To balance your security plan with budget constraints, you’ll need to assess your security needs in totality. Hiring security services is an investment, and properly budgeting for the right level of security can improve your business’ ROI in the long run.

A complete security plan involves more than staffing a few guards at entry points. Be sure to budget for new or updated security technology as well, including the cost of:

• Installing new access control systems
• Installing and monitoring various video surveillance options
• Installing and monitoring alarm systems and/or glass break sensors
• Accessing data with mobile patrol reporting technology

In general, hiring unarmed guards is more cost-effective than hiring armed guards. If you need to make room in your budget to cover the cost of new surveillance camera installations or new access control systems, opting for unarmed guards can free up room in your budget that will allow you to put security technology to better use and reduce the need for physical guards on site.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Security Services

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when hiring security guards in California.

Choosing a Company Based Solely on the Lowest Bid or Price

You get what you pay for, and choosing the right security plan for you should not be based on cost alone. Weigh the costs with the level of service to be provided to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck.

Neglecting To Verify Credentials and Training

Anyone can say they have security training and expertise. To protect your business, always verify the company’s credentials. Confirm their guards have valid guard cards and have undergone up-to-date training before you hire them.

Not Communicating Security Expectations

Be honest and forthcoming with every security team you interview. Make your needs and concerns clear, and hire a company that you feel comfortable can manage and exceed your expectations.

Failing to Consider Industry-Specific Security Needs

Providing security in a bank or hospital is quite different from providing security at a shopping mall or on a construction site. For the best results, hire a company that has several years of experience in providing security measures for your particular industry. This will also give you peace of mind that they understand what makes your security needs unique.

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Where To Find the Best Commercial Security in California

If you own, lease, or manage an office building, shopping center, or other commercial business in California, Security Explorer is the easiest way to find local, top-rated commercial security guard services.

To get started, fill out our simple online form with your contact information, location, and specific security needs. A member of our team will contact you to verify your information and connect you with professional services that can provide the level of security you need for your business.

Whether you need to hire mobile security patrol services, a company to install and monitor security systems, alarm systems, and surveillance cameras, or a K9 team, Security Explorer makes it easy to find security professionals to protect your business, employees, customers, and valuable assets.

To find a security company to develop a customized security plan for you, contact Security Explorer now.