The Ultimate Guide to Hiring Residential Security Guard Services in California

Home invasions and break-ins are all too common in California’s residential areas, and not just areas with a reputation for crime. Now, Californians are fighting back by hiring security to protect their homes.

Are you a California resident who’s thinking about hiring residential security guard services?

If the answer is yes, you’re in luck. Ahead, we’ll tell you everything homeowners and HOA board members should know to hire the best residential security guards in the business.

Why You Should Hire a Residential Security Service to Protect Your California Home

According to Forbes, California is one of the top five states for violent crimes and property crimes. As of 2023, the state sees 503 violent crimes per 100,000 residents — significantly higher than the U.S. average.

It’s no wonder why so many residents are taking measures to protect their property.

Here are seven reasons why your home deserves the protection of professional security guards.

1. Security Guards Deter Violent Crimes

When security guards are visible, they can deter criminals and reduce the risk of homicides, armed robberies, and sexual assaults. Many would-be criminals think twice before committing a crime in clear view of a guard.

Security professionals are trained to spot signs of suspicious activity. When they do, they quickly intervene and stop crimes before they begin.

Guards are the best way to prevent violent crimes from happening inside or outside your home. Of course, security measures like dogs and alarm systems can have an impact, too. A loud ringing alarm or barking dog is often more than enough to scare people off.

2. They Prevent Property Crimes

Property crimes include burglary, vandalism, arson, and theft. In California, 2,294 of every 100,000 residents are victims of property crime.

Most bad actors don’t want to get caught red-handed committing a crime. When guards regularly patrol neighborhoods, crimes of opportunity — such as stealing an unattended bicycle or car — are less likely to occur.

While the legal system considers property crimes “less serious” than violent crimes, break-ins that start as robberies can turn into home invasions if the robber unexpectedly discovers residents in the home.

3. They Protect Your Home from Fires

As Californians know, wildfires are far too common.

Yes, our California fire departments are always on alert to keep our homes safe, but the dedicated eyes of a private security guard can be a huge asset.

At the first sign of smoke or flames, security guards will contact first responders. This is invaluable for homeowners who spend most of their day outside the home and won’t be there to notice if something’s wrong.

Many California firms provide fire watch security services for high-risk property scenarios, such as buildings under renovation or where on-site hot work is being done.

4. Security Guards Prevent Trespassing

In some neighborhoods, it’s not uncommon to see people loitering or sneaking into yards in search of valuables left outside.

Organized crime rings and would-be criminals may even trespass to “scout” a home as a potential target for a future break-in or theft.

Residential security guards keep an eye on your property day and night to prevent unauthorized people from trespassing.

You Might Like: 43 Shocking U.S. Burglary Statistics

5. They Keep Your Security Systems in Working Order

Residential guard companies can maintain and inspect your surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and other tech-related security to ensure they’re in top condition.

When systems fail, guards can be extra-vigilant until the systems are replaced. When systems don’t exist, residential security companies can recommend proper placement and handle camera installation.

Read About: How to Remove an Old Home Security System – Step by Step

6. Security Services Speed Up Emergency Response

Private security guards can detain someone, but they cannot make arrests — they must call law enforcement for that.

Guards on your property can contact law enforcement for you and have emergency services on the way before you even realize an incident has occurred.

7. They Maintain Visitor and Vendor Logs

In gated communities, apartment complexes, and condominiums with a single point of entry, guards handle access control to determine who’s allowed in and who’s denied entry.

They also maintain visitor and vendor logs, recording the identity of everyone who enters the building or community. Visitor and vendor logs keep track of who is on-site at any given point in time.

These records may be key for identifying suspects if a crime occurs. It’s also a great way to keep out unwanted people. For example, residents can inform guards to never allow entry to a specific person if warranted.

This is also why gated communities are safer for your family. For those who don’t live in a gated community, hiring guards is still an excellent way to keep the neighborhood safe.

What Type of Residential Security Do You Need?

Before you hire someone to guard your property, consider your security needs.

Ask yourself these questions to determine what skills, licensing, and experience your ideal security team should have.

Do You Need Security Guards 24/7 in California?

Crimes can occur at any time of day, so 24/7 security is preferred.

Some people only want guards to patrol their property at night, away on vacation, or at work during the day. Others prefer to staff guards around the clock.

Many Californians are comfortable using a combination of part-time security guards with full-time video surveillance and alarm systems. But technology security solutions have their limitations, so physical guards are the best way to maximize your security.

Do You Need Armed or Unarmed Guards?

Having armed or unarmed guards is a matter of personal preference, often dependent on your personal opinions about guns.

Armed security guards may be the best choice for those living in or near high-crime areas. It’s also a good idea if you believe someone may try to do you harm, which is why armed guards are commonly hired by high-profile VIPs and celebrities.

Rest assured that armed security guards have extensive firearms training and know how to operate them in a safe manner. Many of these professionals are ex-military or ex-law enforcement, undergoing top-tier training in the use of lethal weapons.

Still not sure if armed guards are right for you? Read our guide to the pros and cons of unarmed vs armed security guards.

Do You Need K9 Protection?

People have relied on the protections provided by dogs for centuries, and that’s because they’re great at it.

Yet even if you’re a lifelong dog owner, training a guard dog requires special expertise. Security guard companies can pair trained dogs with security guards to provide greater protection. They can also help you find or train a guard dog of your own.

Related: Securing Your Dog Door: Keeping Unwanted Intruders Out

Do You Want Security Guards to Patrol on Foot?

The type of patrol services you choose will depend on the size and layout of your property.

For an average-size single family dwelling, one guard stationed at the main entrance may be more than sufficient. If you have multiple entry points, you might prefer to have that guard patrol the entire property on foot. If you’re hiring guards to protect a large piece of land or multiple homes in the neighborhood, mobile patrols that use bicycles or golf carts may be better.

No matter what security patrols you choose, continue to take common sense measures like closing your windows at night and locking your doors.

Do You Need Surveillance Cameras?

Video cameras are excellent crime deterrents, and installing a surveillance system is a cost-effective way to protect your property and your family.

Some surveillance systems set off alarms, which can scare would-be criminals off your property in an instant. Others allow you to speak remotely through the cameras, making it appear as if someone is home. When choosing a surveillance system, opt for the type that makes the most sense for your needs and your lifestyle.

Security companies can instruct you on all the best places to install cameras and show you how to monitor them. Some can also handle 24/7 remote monitoring for you.

Check out our Full Guide to CCTV Monitoring to learn more.

Find Residential Security Guard Services in California Now

You don’t have to be part of an HOA or live in a gated community to have full-service protection. Any residential community can enjoy this peace of mind.

In some communities, residents and homeowners share the cost of private security services. Ask your neighbors if they want to band together to split the cost of hiring a team to protect multiple houses.

Ready to protect your family, home, and property in California? Search Security Explorer’s directory to find the best security team in your city.

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