How Much Does a Security Guard Cost?
A security guard is a person paid to protect a property such as a house, an establishment or other assets. Security guards are usually privately employed by the company or organization that seeks assistance in protecting their investments. Security guards usually wear uniforms and are often placed in high visibility areas which serve as a deterrent to people who would act illegally. The cost to have a security guard depends on the type of event as well as the level of security needed. There are some companies that have different threat levels that can affect the rate of the guards that will be sent to do the job.
How much is it?
- On average, a security guard can cost anywhere from $10 to as much as $50 per hour. Security companies can charge higher rates if the business or event is located in a high-crime area or is very high-tech or high-security .
- Unarmed security guards are going to cost less than an armed guard. For example, an unarmed guard can cost anywhere from $10 to $30 per hour, while an armed guard can cost upwards of $50 per hour.
- According to the site SecurityGuardServicesGuide.com, the price for getting a security guard can range anywhere between $12 and $50 per hour.
- A service such as Code3ProtectionSecurity.com offers the most basic of duties a security guard, and their services can range from $10 to $100 per hour.
- 21stSentrySecurity.com believes in a non-lethal way to stop any unfavorable occurrences. The price for getting security guards from this service can be anywhere from $30 to $50 per hour.
What is going to be included?
- Within the inclusive hours, the security guard will perform various services such as escort, assist, observe and protect the establishment or the person to whom they are assigned.
- A legitimate service will have security guards that are bonded, insured and licensed.
- A security guard can work many events such as a wedding, a home construction site, or even watch over a home itself. During surveillance, a guard can do a walk around, make reports, as well as take pictures if anything seems suspicious. Each and every guard service can do their own thing.
What are the extra costs?
- Once a security guard is hired, additional costs will involve any additional hours the guard will have to work. The rate for the additional hours will be different from the usual rate the guards have; it usually is double the rate that they have during the inclusive hours.
- A guard that makes rounds can cost more than one that sits in one spot for the entire night.
How can I save money?
- To save money, try to identify how long would you need the guard or how long the event will be so that you will not have to pay for overtime for the guard.
- Consider talking with at least three different services. Many state laws will require that a security guard is hired if alcohol is served at a party.
- Any off duty police officer can perform a job as a security guard. Talk with a local police department to see if they can offer any off duty cops to work a one-time event. Most will be more than happy to take a job for $20 to $30 per hour.
- Try going directly to a security guard rather than going through an agency. Agencies are very expensive and can cost upwards of $50 per hour. If hiring directly, the prices can be cut in half.
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