Working with a professional security provider is vital when it comes to protecting your people, property, and assets. Far from being simply a box-ticking exercise, it’s a strategic decision that could have long-lasting implications for both your organisation’s bottom line and reputation.
Having an experienced and professional security provider by your side can benefit your business in many ways, including financially and by reducing employee risk.
The Benefits of a Security Provider
- Reduce the risk of theft and criminal damage
- Prevent costly service disruption
- Remove risk from employees and lone worker security challenges
- Help meet insurance requirements and ensure compliance
- Stop unwanted visitors from accessing the site
- Protect against new and emerging security threats
- And more…
At Venture Security, we’ve spent the last two decades supporting businesses across the South of England. This includes protecting commercial premises and manufacturing facilities, working at visitor attractions, sporting venues and major events, and managing local authority and public sector contracts.
Many of our customers and officers have been with us for more than ten years now and we continue to be incredibly proud of the relationships we build.
We know what good security looks like! (And what happens when corners are cut!).
Here are some of signs to look out for and questions to ask to ensure you will get the service and protection you deserve.
Common signs a security provider may not be up to standard
They’re cheap
Cheap, low-cost security services can be a significant warning sign that everything isn’t as it should be.
While the initial saving may seem appealing, these providers are highly likely to be cutting corners to maintain profitability – in many of the ways we will go on to cover in this blog!
From inadequate (or non-existent) training to poor staff vetting procedures, low quality equipment, dodging tax and National Insurance liabilities and even a complete lack of legally-required licensing, together this can compromise the effectiveness of any security provided.
Not to mention the increased risk your organisation will face from never really knowing who has access to your site and assets….
Watch our MD Paul Howe on our new video podcast series SecuriCast exploring pricing structures and other warning signs to look out for: What Signs Suggest A Security Provider Might Be Cutting Corners?
Top tip: Never go on price alone, evaluate the overall quality, experience and reliability of any professional security provider you might entrust your reputation to.
They supply unlicensed officers
One of the most serious ways security companies may cut corners is through a lack of licensing. If a security company is supplying unlicensed officers, then they are breaking the law. Despite this, sadly it’s a situation that happens all too often.
In the UK, security officers operating in the private security sector must hold a valid licence from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). This licence is mandatory for roles including guarding and patrols, key holding and alarm response, door supervision, CCTV operation, and close protection. It requires approved training, criminal record checks, and ongoing compliance.
While security providers themselves are not yet subject to compulsory licensing, this is something we’d love to see introduced and are actively pushing for at Venture, as we believe it would help protect both customers and the public from unscrupulous security operators.
Watch our SecuriCast episode on this here: Real World Example Where Poor Security Led To A Major Risk
Top tip: Introduce random licence spot checks for any provider you work with. You can check someone has a valid SIA license on this government website: Check security staff have a licence to work – GOV.UK
They have limited or no accreditations
Having no relevant accreditations (or lying about having them!) and never seeking any form of external validation for operating standards and procedures should act as another warning sign.
For example, quality security companies will often pursue SIA Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) status – a voluntary but rigorous accreditation that demonstrates companies meet the necessary standards in governance, service delivery, and staff management.
Many leading, professional security providers will also work hard to achieve relevant ISO certifications – further reinforcing their commitment to professionalism and accountability. Ensure any claims of ISO compliance are backed up by a UKAS-approved certificate.
Accreditation can help give confidence that the security provider is adhering to correct practices and maintaining a good level of service quality. It also provides a benchmark for evaluating the provider’s performance and reliability. Businesses can have peace of mind knowing that their security needs are being handled by a reputable and trustworthy company.
Watch our SecuriCast episode on this here: How Do Businesses Verify Security Companies?
Top tip: Ask what accreditations a security company has and always verify that they have any they claim to possess.
They’re reactive, never proactive
Security companies that cut corners will do the bare minimum now they have your cash, being purely reactive. As a customer this may leave you having to constantly chase, such as for reports and updates, and never really feeling confident in whether the agreed services have been provided and to the standard you would expect.
At Venture we have had many businesses come to us unhappy with their previous providers. For example, they have observed their mobile security officer arrive on site, only to then stay sat in their vehicle, before driving off again having never conducting any physical checks! Another common issue is officers not showing up as agreed or taking hours to respond to alarms.
Reactive security is expensive. Providing proactive security that is built on experience, planning, and presence is far more effective and cost-efficient overall, as it can prevent issues before they even happen.
By identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities in advance, proactive security measures can prevent incidents before they occur. This approach not only saves money but also protects the business’s reputation and ensures the safety of its people and assets.
Watch our SecuriCast episode on this here: Why Is Prevention More Important Than Reaction
Top tip: If you’re constantly chasing your security company and needing to pick up the slack, find a new company to work with
4. They have low vetting procedures and a high churn rate
Security isn’t just about systems and patrols; it’s about the officers on the ground, their judgement, professionalism, and ability to de-escalate situations.
Well trained and motivated security personnel can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of security operations. Their ability to handle challenging situations with tact and professionalism ensures a safe and secure environment for everyone.
It all starts with proper vetting and recruitment processes, followed by ongoing training and development, and fair rates of pay. One clear warning sign here is a high turnover of security staff and lack of any consistency in the officers deployed.
Top tip: Check out staff comments on sites like Indeed and Glassdoor and ask what vetting procedures the company has in place.
In summary
Choosing the right professional security partner is an important decision, with the risks associated with inadequate security being significant. People are at the heart of any robust security system, and that means well-trained officers who bring professionalism and sound judgment to their roles.
When evaluating a security provider, it’s therefore vital to always ask the right questions.
And if it’s a race to the bottom on price, you have been warned about what you can expect!
In need of expert support?
At Venture Security, we’re proud to be an award-winning provider that is setting standards, raising expectations, and redefining what it means to protect.
To learn more about how we work and to discuss your specific security needs, call us on 01264 391538 or email [email protected]
