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Hire Unarmed Guards: What You Need to Know
Thinking About Hiring Unarmed Security Guards? Read This First Not every situation calls for armed security. Sometimes you just need a professional presence to deter problems and keep things running smoothly. Whether you're managing an office building, retail store, or residential complex, unarmed guards offer solid protection without the intensity of firearms. We created this guide to help you understand when and how to hire unarmed guard security for your property. Go through these questions to see if bringing on unarmed protection makes sense for your situation.
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☆☆☆☆☆Unarmed guards work great for most everyday situations. Think office lobbies, apartment buildings, retail stores, or school events. If you mainly need someone to check IDs, monitor cameras, handle customer service, and call police when needed, unarmed is usually the way to go. They create a welcoming environment while maintaining security.
They patrol your property, monitor access points, check credentials, write incident reports, and act as your eyes and ears. Good unarmed guards know how to de-escalate situations through communication rather than force. They're trained to observe, report, and contact authorities when something falls outside their scope. Most problems get solved just by having someone present and alert.
You're typically looking at $20 to $35 per hour, depending on your location and what you need. Overnight shifts and weekends might cost a bit more. The hourly rate usually covers the guard's wages, their training, insurance, and company overhead. Many security firms offer better rates if you commit to longer contracts or regularly need multiple guards.
Yes, legitimate unarmed guards must complete state-mandated training and pass background checks. They learn about legal boundaries, emergency procedures, report writing, and conflict management. Reputable companies keep their guards up to date on certifications. Always verify that any security firm you consider has properly licensed personnel before signing anything.
Start by reaching out to local security companies that specialize in unarmed services. Most will do a free site assessment to understand your specific needs. They'll ask about your hours, risk factors, and budget. After that, they'll propose a staffing plan. Good companies can usually get guards on site within a few days of signing the contract. Make sure you're clear about scheduling, reporting procedures, and how to request additional coverage when needed.
