Putting your, or your company’s, trust in the arms of a private security company is arguably one of the most important decisions you have to make. After all, you’re entrusting everything you own or have worked for to this particular company, so the choice has to be right. As a consequence, asking the right questions will ensure that you’ll select the right team that will in turn deliver the right results. Here are 5 of the most important points to ask.
Are you fully licensed?
In Victoria the private security industry is regulated and controlled by the Licensing and Regulation Division which is part of the Victoria police force. Therefore any company or individual operating in a private security capacity must be in possession of a private security licence or be registered by the Victoria Police Department. Contracting with an unlicensed company could mean that you are in breach of law. For this reason asking to see the security company’s registration or license is imperative.
Can you provide any references?
Any security company worth their salt will have no problem in providing you with bona fide references that you can contact. If the company seem a little cagey or cautious about providing references then simply say thanks, but no thanks, and move on to the next company.
Do they come across as professional?
This is obviously a question you need to ask yourself. A professional security company will know their stuff. If you’re asking them to give you a quote, chances are they’ve done their homework on you too. If they conduct themselves in a professional manner, have a smart appearance, and come prepared, then it’s fair to say that they care about the services they provide. If on the other hand they’re too casual and turn up for a meeting in a T-shirt and jeans, then you really should avoid them. After all, it’s your property or business that you’re trusting them with.
Did they give the lowest price?
The lowest price doesn’t automatically mean that the security company is next to useless, however if the price is considerably lower than the others, then it could be that they are cutting corners. For example, they may keep costs down by bringing in unskilled guards with little or no experience. Or worse still they might even fail to have the proper insurance. Either way, this is something you need to find out.
What’s actually included in the contract?
Any reputable security company should be able to provide you with a complete breakdown of what you’ve contracted them to do and what this entails. All services and fees should be specifically detailed within your contract so that all parties are clear on the tasks that need to be carried out.
Here at MA Services Group we’ve been in the security industry for many years and during this time have worked with a wide variety of clients over a diverse range of industry specifics. We’re more than happy to provide references or to give you a free, no-obligation quote regarding an upcoming project you may have. Call us on 03 9994 4107 to discuss your project further.