How much does it cost to hire a Residential Security Team in London?
More and more home owners are now realising the benefits of engaging an in-house security team to guard and provide an additional layer of protection to their home or estate. However, with the added cost for the installation and maintenance of the property’s other security measures such as fencing, lighting and CCTV, concerns may be raised about exceeding the security budget of your property.
While the advantages of having a team of home security guards are many, the first and most obvious question is how much does a Residential Security Team cost?
In most cases, the cost to hire a Residential Security Team would be lower than the cost of engaging a close protection team. However, there are still a number of considerations that should be taken into account:
- Size of the property – this will dictate the size of the security team and the amount of security personnel required to feasibly keep it safe on a 24 hour basis. The larger the property, the more people required to patrol the perimeter, monitor the CCTV and provide all-round 360degree protection.
- Location of the property – if the property is located in a remote area such as The Cotswolds, then this will likely require a different security posture to a property that is located in a vibrant city like London.
- Scope of responsibilities – in addition to their home protection duties, the client may request that the security operatives are ‘dual-rolled’ and may have extra responsibilities such as close protection or chauffeuring.
- Specific circumstances – the principal may have specific and somewhat unique circumstances that require a specialist skillset. This may be due to a specified threat against the principal and the family or the principal may request operatives with specialist skills such as certain medical or linguist skills.
As each property is different and each client has varied requirements, this merely presents a snapshot of some of the considerations that may influence the overall price. However, one critical factor that should not be overlooked is the quality and experience of the individual operatives within the security team. As with most things you get what you pay for and the service you receive will typically mirror the price.
For example, at the lower end of the scale there are security operatives that lack the necessary experience, intelligence, possess low professional standards and their posture and demeanour generally appears disinterested (probably because they are).
Prices are generally calculated on the basis of per operative / per day and at this end of the scale you can expect to pay around £200 per operative. If you wish to cuts costs and save money then this type of operatives will gladly accept your request but be warned, the internet is awash with countless media reports of intruders accessing the homes of affluent individuals due to inadequate security provided at this very basic level.
Conversely, at the higher end of the scale are those security operatives that take pride in their work. They are physically fit, robust and assertive. They are diligent, disciplined and their professional resume is enhanced with a credible background in the military or police. The approximate daily cost for a RST at this end of the scale can be in some cases, in the region of around £750 per operative.
However, with this type of service you will typically receive more than just a group of guys providing a physical security presence. These individuals will typically hold a license in Close Protection, they will be qualified and experienced in trauma management and they will have the intellect to think for themselves whilst under pressure.
Conclusion
There are many companies that offer Residential Security services, particularly around London. If you are considering hiring a Residential Security Team to protect your home and family you should take the time to think carefully. Consider the sanctuary of your home and the welfare of your family. Remember that the emotional cost of a burglary often goes much further than the simple loss of possessions. Ask yourself whether you feel that you can genuinely you trust the security provider to protect your home and more importantly, protect your family. No price can be put on the safety of those closest to you– the choice is yours.