Hiring a security guard company is a significant decision that directly impacts the safety and reputation of your business or premises. While many firms market themselves as professional and reliable, appearances can often be deceiving. Failing to identify red flags early on can result in poor service, legal risks, or even endangerment of staff and assets.
This guide outlines key warning signs to consider before entering into an agreement with a security provider in Birmingham.
If a security firm is quoting rates below or close to minimum wage, it's worth asking how they’re able to sustain such low prices. In many instances, these companies cut corners—often by paying guards cash-in-hand, avoiding tax obligations, or hiring underqualified staff.
⚠️ Real-World Example: As of April 2025, there are documented cases of large-scale security companies in the West Midlands charging just £11/hour to major businesses—well below the industry average.
What to Check:
Every legitimate security firm operating in the UK must ensure a valid SIA licence for its individual guards.
Why This Matters: Unlicensed operations are illegal and may void your insurance coverage in the event of an incident.
Checklist:
Frequent employee turnover often signals dissatisfaction, poor working conditions, or mismanagement.
Why This Matters: High churn undermines consistency and can affect the professionalism and experience level of the guards assigned to your site.
What to Investigate:
Reputation is everything in the security industry. While glowing testimonials can be fabricated or submitted by staff, patterns in negative reviews are usually telling.
What to Research:
Without rigorous training programs, guards may lack the practical skills necessary to handle real-world situations such as theft, vandalism, or aggressive behaviour.
What to Request:
Lack of transparency in billing, guard schedules, or service contracts may indicate deeper operational issues.
Why This Matters: Ambiguity can conceal hidden costs, contract traps, or subpar staffing ratios.
Red Flags:
Generic service offerings may not be effective for your unique environment, whether you're running a retail outlet, corporate office, or industrial facility.
What to Expect:
Guards are the frontline of your security operations. Their demeanour, appearance, and conduct should reflect your organisation's standards.
Red Flags:
Effective communication is vital for both internal coordination and incident response.
Watch For:
If a company cannot provide you with documented, rehearsed emergency procedures, it may not be prepared for critical incidents.
What to Ask:
Security firms must carry employer’s liability, public liability, and professional indemnity insurance.
Why This Matters: Without sufficient coverage, you could be liable for incidents involving the security staff.
Documents to Request:
Be cautious of companies promising outcomes like “zero crime incidents” or “100% protection.”
Why This Matters: No company can guarantee absolute safety. Overpromising may reflect dishonesty or lack of industry experience.
What’s Reasonable:
Technology enhances security effectiveness. Lack of investment in tools like real-time tracking, surveillance, or reporting systems can be a disadvantage.
Check For:
14. No Supervision or Oversight
Even the best guards need guidance. A quality firm ensures that their staff are monitored, evaluated, and held accountable.
What to Expect:
Avoid companies that lock clients into rigid long-term contracts with little room for renegotiation.
Key Features to Look For:
Security issues can arise at any time. If your provider is difficult to contact during urgent situations, that’s a serious liability.
What to Evaluate:
Choosing a security guard company in Birmingham involves more than price comparison—it's about evaluating professionalism, transparency, reliability, and ethical standards. By paying close attention to these red flags, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your premises, people, and assets are protected by a trustworthy partner.
For businesses that want to vet providers thoroughly or require custom advice on selecting the right firm, consulting with local security experts or legal advisors can offer added assurance.