Due to the large number of valuables stored inside each unit, self-storage facilities are common targets for theft. Chains and padlocks on gates and doors aren’t enough to prevent thieves from attempting to break-in. Failing to provide quality security for your facility can put your business in a vulnerable position and, in the event of a break-in, make you susceptible to a lawsuit. Hiring a security guard or guards will greatly increase the security of your facility. This person will be able to monitor entrances and exits, monitor security cameras, and patrol the premises ensuring everything is secure. While you might love the idea of keeping everything in-house, there are many benefits to working with a security firm.
Getting spooked and accidentally shooting the wrong person or even asking the wrong person to leave your premises could result in a lawsuit. These are things that could very well happen if you hire an inexperienced security guard. You’re also legally responsible for ensuring you have proper insurance coverage. A security guard’s job is dangerous and you’ll need higher coverage rates to protect them and your business. Contracting security means all of the legal ramifications are taken care of as the firm will take full responsibility for their guards’ actions along with factoring in insurance costs into the contract.
Hiring an in-house security guard also means you’re responsible for ensuring they meet all the basic requirements, such as receiving the proper training. You’ll be required to pay for a background check and pay for additional training as needed or required by your state—which would require you to hire backup security guards while your employee takes time off to train. If you contract security from a reputable firm, all of this is handled for you. Your business saves money by hiring a firm versus in-house security as you won’t have to pay for benefits, training, or background checks. It’s all included in the contract price which is actually less than you’d pay for individual employees. Contracted guards are also trained during their off-hours or you’re sent replacements while the others train.
Additionally, you won’t have to deal with unemployment or your security staff getting sick if you contract security. Your security firm will send you a replacement guard temporarily until the other guard is well. They also give you the flexibility of adding and removing guards as needed. You don’t always need the same amount of security all year. During your busiest times, you might need five security guards. However, you may only need two during slower periods. Contracting security is extremely cost-effective as you’ll always get what you pay for and you’ll never be without the set number of guards in your contract. If you just need an additional guard for a month, that’s no problem. If you’re downsizing and need fewer guards, you’re covered without the hassle of firing anyone.
Trying to put together your own security team isn’t easy. You would have to find individuals who have experience in your industry, help them learn to work together, and figure out where to best place them. Security firms work with you to create custom contracts detailing your number of guards and their specific responsibilities in your business. If your guards don’t perform those duties, you can call and get a replacement. All of the guards are trained to work well as a team, meaning you get the best from day one.
Before you hire any security guard firm, though, you should verify its training, accreditation, and licensing, as well as the licensing of any guards assigned to your facility. It’s also wise to ensure that the company has the right insurance to protect yourself in the event that a guard somehow becomes injured during their assignment. Depending on the job, an effective security guard strategy may require unarmed or armed personnel, security cameras, and other technologies and a response strategy for any number of unforeseen situations. The best firms will customize your guard services to ensure that you have exactly what you need to meet your security needs.
Your goal should be to find a company that has a proven track record of security success in every area of vulnerability identified. Once you understand your needs, you can focus on finding a company that can reliably address your concerns. The best Orlando security company will be the one with the experience, trained personnel, and commitment needed to provide the top-level security you deserve. Even if your area is deemed relatively safe and you don’t personally worry about a break-in or other crime, hiring a security company for your facility is a wise investment. Ensuring you have a safe and secure on-site security team will not only help attract new tenants but will also keep your current tenants happy. Reach out to us here at Apex Security to find the best security guards for your Orlando storage facility.