Los Angeles and surrounding LA County have over 244,000 businesses, each contributing valuable goods and services to an economy larger than that of many countries. But with around 15,000 annual burglaries, doing business in Los Angeles requires reliable security solutions to protect your people, productivity and profits.
A trained security guard is your ally in securing your commercial property or event. If you need help finding a security guard company you can trust, follow the tips in this guide.
Why Choose an LA Security Guard Company
Los Angeles is the second most populous city in the United States, with a population approaching 4 million. The size, location and complexity of this vibrant city bring different security risks, including high rates of theft, vandalism, violence and even wildfires. For example, the city experienced 109,025 property crimes in 2023 alone. An experienced security guard company that knows LA well can help protect your people and assets from these threats.
8 Tips for Choosing an LA Security Guard Company
Are you looking for strategies to protect your property, but are unsure which LA security guard company to trust? Follow these tips to find your perfect security partner.
1. Assess Your Security Needs
Start by identifying the specific risks affecting your property or event in Los Angeles. Consider the location, crime rates, property type and what you need to protect.
These factors will inform the type of security service you need. For example, if you have a large commercial property, consider roving security guards to cover your entire premises. If you host large events or stock valuable inventory, you’ll want armed security guards. In a place like LA with major wildfire risks, you should consider a company offering fire watch services.
A reputable security provider will help you conduct a thorough risk assessment and recommend your ideal solution.
2. Verify Licensing, Insurance and Compliance
Choosing a security guard company with proper licensing and insurance protects you from legal and financial risks. It also demonstrates the company’s commitment to compliance with California’s regulatory standards. Look for a partner with:
- At least $1 million in general liability insurance
- A valid Private Patrol Operator license issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS)
3. Consider Experience and Reputation
Choose a security company with a proven track record in Los Angeles. Look for providers with several years of local experience, as they will be familiar with LA’s unique security challenges and regulations. Check online reviews and testimonials to learn how current and past customers experienced the company when choosing between LA security guard companies. A reputable company should have a history of reliability, professionalism and positive client feedback.
4. Ask About Training and Certifications
For assurance that your potential security partner’s guards are up to the task, ask about their training and qualifications. Each guard should have these credentials:
- Thorough background check
- Completed Power to Arrest Training
- A BSIS guard card
- At least 32 hours of security guard skills training completed within six months of security guard registration
- At least eight annual ongoing training hours
Be sure to also ask whether the company’s guards have any additional specialized training. This is especially important for armed guards, who need firearms permits, extensive background checks, and expertise in force laws, firearm safety and practical shooting skills in high-stakes situations.
5. Evaluate Security Technology
For peace of mind, you need a security partner who uses technology to stay a step ahead. GPS guard monitoring is a powerful tool for supporting guards, maintaining accountability and keeping you informed. GPS monitoring lets your security partner track personnel movements in real time, including clock-ins and outs, breaks, patrols, scan checkpoints, and incident reports. It also allows the dispatch center to create a geofence around your premises and detect if guards leave this zone.
6. Check Communication and Support
LA security situations can change rapidly. Effective communication is essential to ensure security guards can protect your property at all times. Choose a company that offers 24/7 dispatch and support, allowing you to reach a live representative at any time, especially during emergencies. A 24-hour dispatch center can respond to urgent scenarios and provide crucial real-time updates to guards in the field.
7. Look for Flexibility
Choose a security partner with customizable solutions and the flexibility to adapt to your evolving security needs. Whether you’re managing shifting event schedules or responding to emerging threats, you need a security provider who delivers reliable protection and puts your needs first. Look for short-term contract options, customizable guard hours, and options to change your level of protection at short notice if necessary.
8. Prioritize Value
You’re investing in protecting your people, preventing losses due to theft and vandalism and maintaining productivity. Choose the partner that can deliver the best return on your investment through a trained security presence, reliable support and custom solutions that meet your needs. A well-equipped security guard company can save you thousands of dollars by preventing crime and the losses, downtime, employee turnover and legal issues that result from it.
Secure Your LA Property With The Guard Alliance
Choosing the right security guard company is the most important step you can take to protect your people, property and profits. Pick a partner you can trust to handle the challenges of LA security. The Guard Alliance stands out among LA’s most reputable security guard companies.
We are a fully licensed, bonded and insured security company with highly skilled guards. We have extensive local experience in LA and have earned a reputation for reliable security, with armed and unarmed guards, roving patrols, and fire watch services. Our guards are fully qualified and highly trained to detect threats, deter criminals and intervene where necessary to protect your property. The Guard Alliance is also known for:
- Flexibility: We offer our clients contracts with flexible schedules and customizable services, putting your needs first at every step.
- Ever-present support: Our 24-hour dispatch center is always ready to respond to your reports or convey emergency instructions to our guards so that they can protect your property safely and effectively.
- Technology serving safety: Our guard tour system lets us create a geofence around your property to track our personnel’s movements, receive real-time incident reports and keep you updated about all activities on your property.
Contact us today to discuss your custom security quote.
