As you may have already learned there are many Security Companies for you to choose from, so how does one decide which company to choose? For starters you should make sure that the company is properly licensed.
In New York State all legitimate Security Companies (and security employees) must be licensed by the New York State Department of State (NY-DOS), and must be bonded and insured. This process insures a basic standard of competence and an inferred professional standard. The New York State Department of State maintains a public accessible database (http://appext20.dos.ny.gov/lcns_public/chk_load) in which consumers can use to verify if a Security Company or Security Guard is properly licensed and in compliance with licensing standards.
You should never assume that your security situation is common (no two situations are the same), like wise you should be cautious of any Security Company that uses words like, “I have handled numerous situations like this before” or one that is willing to be hired without first meeting with you and conducting at minimum a basic security assessment.
The hiring of a Security Company is sensitive and may involve you sharing personal information with them therefore you should make sure that you shop around and ask for a free initial consultation, amongst other things you should be confident that they understand your security needs and that they are knowledgeable and experienced enough to provide the service that you need. Professionalism and confidentiality are a must.
Once you have found a Security Company that you are comfortable with and that you feel possess all the necessary qualifications you should make sure that you discuss with them their fees and the services included. In New York State Security Companies are required to provide their clients with an itemized contract stipulating basic fees and potential additional cost. Security Company rates will vary greatly, the rates should depend on the pre agreed upon requested service(s), number of personnel, potential incurred expenses, and time spent providing services.
Hiring a reputable Security Company may seem like a difficult task but if you follow these simple steps and if you do you a little research the process will be simple and easy.