How much does private security cost? (What to look for when hiring security guard service)

 There is a big misconception about private security that it costs too much or it is difficult to hire. When in reality the hourly cost of security is the same as employing a plumber or an electrician. But not all security guard companies offer a similar service or charge a fair cost. 

In this blog post, we will explain what the standard cost of security is in Ontario and what those service costs should include. This blog is designed to assist you with detailed information for buyers so that you can ensure you get the exact service you want. 

The private security cost could vary based on job requirements, travel, and a lot of other factors. Most security guard services are charged per hour, though; few companies prefer to charge by the job. But, being a client you should request an hourly rate. As there might be some scheduling changes and you do not want to end up paying for services you do not get. 

In Canada – Ontario, the basic cost of security guard services is about twenty-five dollars per hour. With the majority varying between twenty-three to twenty-six dollars! Anything less than this might be an outcome of the inexperience of the company, and anything more, the company might be giving extra services that you don’t actually want. 

An experienced security provider would know all the costs linked to your project, like expenses of fuel, special holiday rates, travel rates, and others. That is why if you get a quote saying that is far below the others, you can guess they are new in the security business that might not have the required exposure. 

To ensure you are getting the finest service, we suggest reviewing at least three to five proposals. This way you can compare costs and see who is capable to offer you the best services according to your needs and requirements. 

ASK FOR A SERVICE FEE BREAKDOWN: 

Any professional security guard company would not hesitate to give you a breakdown of their service cost. As a customer, you must know how and where your cash is being utilized. 

Generally, private security guard agencies that pay higher wages could give better service. So, if an agency is charging you thirty dollars per hour, but is only paying their staff fourteen dollars, then security staff are underpaid and would most likely place less effort in. 

WHAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH YOUR SERVICE COST? 

Included in your service cost must be electronic reporting and it must be at no extra cost. With the amount of guard patrol software accessible now and with how cost-effective they could be; there’s no reason that your guard provider can’t offer this to you at no extra cost. 

As guards utilize their own vehicles quite often for shelter or to patrol, they must as well be compensated for it. So, before you sign the agreement, ensure that the cost they offered you includes all extra charges. 

A common practice among a lot of security guard agencies is to give an extra clause that includes a cost boost during winter seasons. This extra cash is generally given directly to the guard for the additional fuel consumption to keep the heat going. 

Eventually, all customers must at least be capable to get evidence of services completed. This could be done with patrol scan points, clocking in at a place, or some other way that offers evidence of service. If you have no way of knowing even if your security is on-site or what they are doing, you must think about a new service provider. 

As of 2021, there are more than two thousand registered security and investigation agencies in Ontario alone. So, no matter what, there is no lack of services accessible. If your security guard provider is not meeting or exceeding your expectations, it never hurts to get a second quote. 

At last, we thank you for taking out the time to read this whole blog post. We hope it was able to put some more light on the cost of private security and maybe you got to know something new. For more information, check out our other blogs if you found this helpful.