How to Choose the Right Security Company
Security, Peace of Mind, Quality of Life
Key Questions to Ask
Selecting the right alarm company is crucial for ensuring the safety of your home and loved ones. Here are some key questions to consider when evaluating potential security providers:
Is the company PSiRA registered?
All private security companies and employees must be registered with PSiRA. Check the PSiRA website to confirm whether the company is registered.
What areas do you cover?
Ensure the company operates extensively in your locality and has a strong presence there.
Do you have a local base in my area?
A nearby base can lead to faster response times during emergencies.
Do you own and operate your own control room?
Companies with in-house monitoring can reduce delays compared to those outsourcing these services, because phone calls then need to be made between one company and another before the armed response is dispatched.
Is the company fully registered to carry firearms (not air guns, etc.)?
This shows that the officers are correctly trained and equipped to deal with all situations and threats.
What background checks are conducted on your staff?
It's essential that all personnel undergo thorough security screenings, this is done through PSiRA registration and SAPS name clearance.
How many response vehicles are active in my area?
More vehicles can mean quicker on-site assistance. You can request tracker information to confirm how often they are in your street.
Is your service strictly reactive, or do you also conduct regular patrols?
Some security companies’ vehicles are based at their office and only deployed to a suburb in the event of an alarm activation. The better security company will do regular patrols which can deter potential criminal activity, and they know more about what is happening in each suburb.
How many clients do you serve in this area?
A substantial client base can reflect the company's reliability and reputation.
What is the duration and nature of your contracts?
Understand the commitment period and any associated terms before signing. A normal service contract is 21 working days’ notice, provided no financial agreements are in place, e.g. leased alarm system.
Do you utilise CCTV cameras in your monitoring processes?
Security companies with an extensive CCTV network are more aware of potential threatens and can quickly deploy officers to deal with any suspicious activity.
What procedures are followed when an alarm is triggered?
Make sure you get clarity on response protocols to make sure you know what to expect during an incident. Deploying the officer immediately reduces response times.
Are alarm installations and repairs handled internally or outsourced?
In-house technicians generally offer more consistent service quality. The technicians will also have a clear service history and are more trusted employees.
What qualifications do your technicians hold?
They must be PSiRA certified and have passed the relevant training courses in the equipment they are installing. SAIDSA certified technicians and installation standards display a high skill level and professionalism, but are not compulsory.
By addressing these questions, you can make an informed decision and choose a security company that aligns with your safety needs and expectations.