Businesses use contract security to hire professional guards without managing an in-house team. Depending on the industry, contract security guards may patrol properties, monitor surveillance systems, control access to restricted areas, or respond to emergencies. 

Whether you're hiring a security firm or running one, understanding how these services work can help you structure better contracts.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What contract security is and how it works
• Differences between contract security and proprietary security
• How to structure and manage contract security for your business
• Cost considerations and common challenges in contact security
• Best practices
• FAQ

Let’s start by defining what contract security is.
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What is contract security?

Contract security is when businesses hire a third-party company to handle their private security needs instead of managing an in-house team. Licensed security firms provide these services and can include on-site security guards, mobile patrols, surveillance monitoring, and emergency response.

The purpose of contract security is to protect people, property, and assets while giving businesses a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective alternative to hiring, training, and managing their own security staff. By outsourcing security, companies can focus on their core operations while still having professional security coverage.

What do contract security guards do?

Contract security services vary based on industry needs, but common jobs include:

• On-site security: Guards monitor entrances, check credentials, and respond to incidents that need their immediate attention.
• Mobile patrols: Officers conduct rounds (patrols) to discourage crime and check for security threats.
• Surveillance monitoring: Security teams watch surveillance cameras and respond to or report suspicious activity.
• Access control: Guards manage entry points and make sure that only authorized individuals enter restricted areas.
• Emergency response: Security personnel handle things like trespassing, theft, vandalism, medical emergencies, and even natural disasters. Guards are usually trained (sometimes certified) to handle crises and defuse tense situations, making them reliable in such conditions.

Which industries use contract security services?

Many industries rely on contract security because it makes more sense than creating their own proprietary or in-house team. Some of the most common include:

• Corporate offices
• Retail stores and malls
• Healthcare facilities
• Manufacturing and warehouses
• Residential communities
• Events and entertainment
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Advantages of contract security

If you run a security agency, offering contract security is a great way to bring in steady business while helping companies get the protection they need. Many businesses don’t want to deal with hiring and managing their own guards — that’s where you come in. Here’s why contract security works for both you and your clients: 

Clients stay in charge, but you do the heavy lifting

Businesses want security, but they often don’t want the hassle of hiring, training, and supervising guards. With contract security, businesses can set the rules and review reports, but your agency takes care of the work. That means they get peace of mind, and you get long-term contracts.

It’s cheaper for them (and more business for you)

Hiring a full-time security team costs businesses a lot of money. Between salaries, benefits, and equipment, many businesses just don’t have the budget for it. That’s why they turn to security agencies. Through contract security, businesses can get trained guards when they need them without the big price tag of an in-house team. 

You provide trained, ready-to-go professionals

When a company hires your agency, they expect security guards who know what they’re doing. They don’t want to handle screening or training. If your team is reliable and professional, businesses will keep coming back to you instead of trying to build their own security team from scratch.

Contract security is flexible (just like your clients' needs)

Some businesses only need guards during busy seasons. Others need extra help for big events. With contract security, they can adjust their coverage as needed. That flexibility keeps clients happy and opens more opportunities for your agency to provide different kinds of services.

You take care of the legal stuff, so they don’t have to

Hiring security means dealing with licenses, background checks, and liability if something goes wrong. Most businesses don’t want to handle that. When they hire your agency, you cover all the legal requirements, making it easier and safer for them to get the security they need.

As a security agency, it’s vital that you stay on top of your guards’ licenses and certifications. Belfry allows you to input all the important info and track renewal deadlines so you can get timely alerts beforehand.
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Contract security vs. proprietary security

When businesses need security, they have two main choices — hiring a security company (contract security) or building their own in-house team (proprietary security). Each approach has its own advantages and challenges. Let’s look at a side-by-side comparison below:

Key differences between contract and proprietary security

Contract security is when a business hires an external security company to provide guards and security services. The security firm handles hiring, training, and managing the guards, so the business doesn’t have to.

Proprietary security, on the other hand, means the business directly employs its own security team. The business is then responsible for hiring, training, and supervising security staff, as well as handling compliance and legal requirements.

Why clients choose contract security

Businesses turn to contract security when they want professional protection without the hassle of managing their own security team. 

Many clients choose contract security because it’s a cost-effective option where they only pay for the services they need. They also like the flexibility, since they can scale up or down as needed. 

Plus, businesses prefer leaving legal compliance, liability insurance, and licensing in the hands of professionals like you, so they won’t have to deal with the paperwork (and the risks).

Why some businesses prefer proprietary security

Some businesses, especially larger corporations or those with unique security needs, prefer to handle security in-house. They want full control over hiring, training, and daily security operations.

This is common in industries with strict security protocols or specialized training requirements. However, running an in-house security team requires a major investment in salaries, benefits, equipment, and compliance. 

For security agencies, this means that while proprietary security clients may not be looking for full contract services, they might still need consulting, supplemental security, or emergency coverage, which are areas where your agency can step in and offer value.
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Types of contract security services

Some clients require basic coverage, while others need specialized protection — which is why you can offer different types of contract services.

You can offer unarmed guards, who provide a visible security presence without firearms. You can also provide your clients with armed guards trained to handle high-risk situations and locations like banks, jewelry stores, and government buildings.

Read more about building security in our full guide. 

Event security vs. long-term security contracts

If you’re unsure what kind of contracts you want to provide, you can consider offering:

• Event security: This type of contract is temporary, covering concerts, festivals, corporate events, and private gatherings. It’s best to partner with event venues or event planning companies, as they can provide you with a steady stream of contracts.

• Long-term security contracts: These offer ongoing protection for locations like businesses, retail stores, healthcare facilities, and residential communities. This type of contract may be easier to offer since long-term relationships mean stability.

Specialized security services

If you want to go a bit more niche in your service offerings, there are a few things to consider. You can offer the following high-demand specialized security services:

• Cybersecurity: Protecting against hacking, fraud, and data breaches.
• Executive protection: Personal security for CEOs, celebrities, and politicians.
• Loss prevention: Preventing theft in retail and warehouses.
• Construction site security: Protecting equipment and materials from theft or vandalism.
• Hospital security: Managing patient disturbances, visitor screening, and emergencies.
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How to structure a contract for security services

A well-structured security services contract protects both your agency and your clients by clearly defining expectations, responsibilities, and legal requirements.

No matter what kind of services you provide, it’s important to structure your contract well for your own protection. Consider:

Adding key clauses

Every security services contract should include essential clauses. These include:

• Scope of services: Clearly outline the specific security services your agency will provide, including patrols, access control, surveillance, and emergency response.
• Liability and insurance: Define who is responsible for incidents, damages, or claims. Most contracts require you, the security provider, to carry liability insurance.
• Termination clause: Specify how either party can end the contract, including notice periods and any penalties for early termination.
• Licensing and compliance: This clause ensures that all of your hired security guards meet licensing and training requirements as mandated by local laws.
• Payment terms: Detail your rates, payment schedule, overtime charges, and any additional fees for special services.
• Confidentiality: Include a clause to protect your clients’ sensitive business information from being shared outside of the agreement.

Here’s a tip: Don’t go at it alone — consult with a lawyer for legal and contract advice.
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How to manage contract security guards effectively

Keeping track of security guard performance helps you to maintain high service standards. You can:

• Use guard tour systems: Use these systems if you offer mobile security guards or patrol services, since they track patrols, check-ins, and incident reports in real time, making it easy to confirm guards are following their assigned routes.
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• Conduct regular site visits: Performing spot checks helps to confirm guards are dressed properly, following protocols, and staying alert on the job.
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• Gather client feedback: Checking in with clients every now and then helps to identify any issues early and keeps service quality where it needs to be.
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• Provide detailed post orders: Every site should have a clear list of duties, emergency contacts, and response procedures. Guards also need clear guidance on de-escalation tactics and legal limitations.
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• Establish a direct point of contact: Guards should always know who to reach out to for instructions (or when issues come up). Also, give guards a way to voice concerns or suggest improvements to build trust.
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• Verify licensing and certifications: All guards should meet state and industry requirements for security work. Use tools like Belfry to manage your licensing compliance.
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• Maintain proper documentation: Keeping incident reports and training records organized helps in case of audits or legal issues. Remember to review them — looking over security logs and reports can reveal patterns, training gaps, or potential problems before they get worse.
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Cost considerations for contract security

Contract security pricing varies based on the service model. 

Hourly rates are the most common, while per-project pricing works for short-term jobs like events. 

Retainer agreements offer ongoing coverage for a fixed monthly fee, providing stability for both the client and security agency.

Additional fees can include overtime charges, equipment costs, and last-minute service fees. Be upfront about these costs to maintain client trust and avoid potential disputes.
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Common challenges in contract security

As a security agency, you may face certain difficulties and growing pains as your business evolves. Here are some common challenges (and solutions to try):

• Legal and compliance risks: Security agencies must follow licensing laws, liability requirements, and industry regulations. Stay updated on legal changes, verify all guards are properly certified, and carry the necessary insurance to avoid any issues. You can also use tools that can help you track compliance.
  
  
• Managing turnover and reliability issues: High guard turnover can lead to inconsistent service and staffing shortages. Try offering competitive pay, providing ongoing training, and maintaining a pool of backup guards for quick replacements.
  
  
• Maintaining security quality and efficiency: Varying client expectations and inconsistent guard performance can affect your service quality. Remember to conduct regular site visits, use security guard software for accountability, and keep open communication with clients and guards.
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Best practices for choosing a contract security provider

If you’re a business looking to hire contract security, there are a few things to keep in mind to help you find the best quality. Here are:

• Things to look for in a security company: A reliable provider should have a strong track record, well-trained guards, and experience in your industry. Look for companies with clear communication, good client reviews, and a good reputation.
  
  
• Questions to ask before signing a contract: Clarify contract terms, pricing, and guard training standards. You can also ask about response times for emergencies, how they handle incidents, and whether they provide detailed reports.
  
  
• Certifications and qualifications to check: Verify that the company and its guards have proper licensing, liability insurance, and industry-required certifications. Depending on your needs, check for training in areas like de-escalation, crowd control, or armed security.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can contract security be used for small businesses?

Yes. Small businesses can benefit from contract security without the high costs of hiring their own guards. Many security agencies offer flexible plans, so you can get the right level of protection without overspending.

How do I make sure my contract security guards are trustworthy?

The best way is to work with a trusted security agency that does background checks and proper training. You can also set clear expectations, request regular reports, and use security software like Belfry to keep things on track.

How do I terminate a contract with a security provider?

Check your contract for the termination terms. Most require a written notice and may have a cancellation fee. If you’re unhappy with the service, talk to your provider first to see if things can be improved before making a final decision.

Are there risks of using contract security?

Like anything, contract security has pros and cons. You won’t have full control over hiring and training guards, and service quality can vary by provider. The key is choosing a reliable security company with a good reputation and clear communication.

Can I transition from proprietary security to contract security?

Yes, and many businesses do. It’s a great way to cut costs and simplify management. The switch usually involves phasing out your in-house team, working with a security provider to set up services, and making sure your new security plan runs smoothly.
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Belfry can help you provide high-quality services 

Finding clients for your contract security agency can be challenging. But when you do secure them, it’s super important that you provide high-quality service to make sure you establish long-term client relationships. Belfry can help with that.

Belfry is an integrated security management platform that helps you manage personnel, ease admin work, and be transparent with your clients.

Here’s how:

• Reduce downtime: Belfry’s automated scheduling feature allows you to ensure that shifts are filled — and with the appropriately licensed (and trained) contract security guards.
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• Officer accountability: GPS tracking allows you to check whether your guards are following post or patrol orders. Geofencing alerts let you know if they leave their designated areas.
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• Licensing compliance: You can use Belfry to reduce your licensing and certification renewal woes. Input your guards’ licenses and Belfry will help you track renewal deadlines, alerting you ahead of time.
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• Client transparency: Belfry’s real-time client portal gives your clients access to patrol activities, incident reports, and compliance information, so they can get an idea of what’s going on with their security.
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• Less admin work: Focus more on running your security operations — Belfry can help reduce your administrative burden by automating timekeeping and attendance tracking (including overtime) to help you ensure ACA compliance and accurate payroll.

Want to see how Belfry can streamline your operations and help you deliver top-notch security services? Schedule a free demo today.