Property Manager on how to effectively deal with a Security Guard Company

As a property manager, you are responsible for the safety and security of your tenants. One of the ways to ensure that your property is safe is by hiring a security guard company. However, dealing with a security guard company can be challenging, especially if you have no prior experience. You may face issues such as poor communication, inadequate training, and unprofessional conduct. In this article, we will discuss how to effectively deal with a security guard company to ensure that your property is secure and your tenants are protected. We will provide you with tips on how to communicate effectively with the security guard company, how to evaluate their performance, and how to ensure that they are adequately trained. By following these tips, you can ensure that your property is safe and secure, and your tenants feel protected. So, let’s dive in and explore how to effectively deal with a security guard company as a property manager.

Clearly Define Your Expectations

Before you hire a security guard company, it is essential to have a clear understanding of your expectations. You need to know what you want the security guards to do, the areas they need to patrol, and the type of equipment you want them to use. You should also have a clear understanding of the hours they should work and the type of training they should receive. By defining your expectations, you can ensure that the security guard company provides the services you need.

It is also important to communicate your expectations to the security guard company. You should have a meeting with them to discuss your expectations, and they should provide you with a detailed plan of how they intend to meet them. A clear understanding of expectations from both parties is necessary to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that the security guard company provides the services you require.

Once you have agreed on the terms, you should put everything in writing. This should include the services to be provided, the hours of work, the training required, and the equipment to be used. A written agreement protects both parties and serves as a reference in the event of a disagreement.

Conduct Thorough Research

Before you hire a security guard company, it is essential to conduct thorough research. You need to ensure that the company is reliable, reputable, and has a good track record. You should check their website, read reviews, and ask for references from previous clients. By doing so, you can determine whether the security guard company can provide the level of service you require.

When you have narrowed down your list of potential security guard companies, you should conduct interviews. You should ask questions about their experience, training, and their approach to security. You should also ask about their availability and the type of equipment they use. The interview process will help you to determine which security guard company is the best fit for your property.

Request a Comprehensive Proposal

After conducting research and interviews, you should request a comprehensive proposal from the security guard company you have selected. The proposal should include a detailed plan on how they intend to provide the services you require. It should include the number of security guards they will provide, their qualifications, and the type of equipment they will use. The proposal should also include a breakdown of the costs and the terms and conditions of the contract.

It is important to review the proposal carefully to ensure that it meets your expectations. You should also compare the proposals from different security guard companies to determine which one offers the best value for money. Once you have selected a security guard company, you should sign a contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the agreement.

Establish Clear Lines of Communication

Communication is essential when dealing with a security guard company. You need to ensure that you can communicate easily with the security guard company and that they can communicate with you. You should establish clear lines of communication from the outset. You should provide the security guard company with your contact details and ensure that they provide you with theirs.

You should also establish a point of contact who will be responsible for communicating with the security guard company. This person should be available to answer any questions and provide feedback to the security guard company. A clear communication plan ensures that everyone is on the same page, and any issues can be addressed promptly.

Conduct Regular Meetings and Inspections

Regular meetings with the security guard company are essential to ensure that they are providing the level of service you require. You should schedule regular meetings to discuss any issues or concerns and provide feedback on their performance. The meetings should be used to review the security guard company’s performance and ensure that they are meeting your expectations.

In addition to meetings, regular inspections of the security team’s work are also necessary. You should conduct random inspections to ensure that the security guards are patrolling the areas they are supposed to and that they are performing their duties effectively. Inspections also serve as a reminder to the security guard company that you are monitoring their performance.

Provide Proper Training and Instructions

Training is essential for security guards to perform their duties effectively. You should ensure that the security guard company provides adequate training to its employees. The training should include communication skills, conflict resolution, and emergency response procedures. The security guards should also be trained on the use of equipment such as CCTV cameras and alarm systems.

You should also provide instructions to the security guard company on the specific requirements of your property. This includes areas that require special attention, potential security risks, and emergency procedures. Clear instructions ensure that the security guards understand what is expected of them and how to respond in different situations.

Maintain a Professional Relationship

Maintaining a professional relationship with the security guard company is essential. You should treat the security guards with respect and acknowledge their efforts. A positive relationship ensures that the security guard company is motivated to provide the best service possible.

You should also ensure that the security guard company is paid on time. Late payments can affect their motivation and lead to a decline in their performance. Paying on time also ensures that the security guard company is committed to providing the best service possible.

Regularly Review and Update Contracts

Contracts should be reviewed regularly to ensure that they reflect current requirements. You should review the contract annually and update it as necessary. This includes changes to the services provided, the hours of work, and the equipment used. Regular reviews ensure that the security guard company is providing the services you require and that the contract remains relevant.

Seek Feedback from Tenants and Employees

Feedback from tenants and employees can provide valuable insight into the performance of the security guard company. You should seek feedback regularly to determine whether the security guard company is meeting their expectations. Feedback can be obtained through surveys or informal conversations.

You should also encourage tenants and employees to report any security concerns or issues to the security guard company. This ensures that the security guard company is aware of any potential issues and can take appropriate action.

Evaluate Performance and Consider Alternatives

Regular evaluation of the security guard company’s performance is essential. You should evaluate their performance against the agreed-upon terms and conditions of the contract. If their performance is not satisfactory, you should discuss the issues with them and provide them with an opportunity to improve.

If the security guard company‘s performance does not improve, you should consider alternative options. You should conduct research and interviews to find a new security guard company that can provide the level of service you require.

Remember, effective communication, clear expectations, and regular monitoring are key to maintaining a successful relationship with a security guard company.

Also, the safety and security of your property rely on the effectiveness of your security personnel. By implementing these pointers, you can establish a strong working relationship and ensure that your property is well-protected.

In conclusion, dealing with a security guard company can be challenging, but with proper planning and communication, you can ensure that your property is safe and secure. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can establish clear expectations, communicate effectively, and evaluate performance to ensure that your property and tenants receive the best possible service.