The cost of night security in London depends on the type of service you need. Static security guards usually cost between £17 and £25 per hour, while mobile patrols range from £25 to £50 per visit, depending on how frequently they check your property. Key holding and alarm response services typically charge a monthly fee of £20 to £80, with additional call-out fees of £30 to £100 per incident. Prices vary based on location, the size of the property, risk level, and whether you hire an in-house team or use a private security company.
What Affects the Cost of Night Security in London?
Several factors influence how much you will pay for security services such as:
Location and Crime Rate
If your business is in Central London or a high-risk area, you will likely pay more. Security companies assess local crime rates when setting prices. Areas with high burglary or vandalism rates require more frequent patrols and better-trained guards, which increases costs.
Property Size and Complexity
A small office in a low-risk area will not need the same level of security as a large warehouse or shopping centre. The more entrances, blind spots, and high-value assets your property has, the more expensive security will be.
Level of Risk and Type of Business
Banks, jewellery stores, and data centres need highly trained security personnel, often with specialist skills in surveillance or access control. Businesses with expensive stock or cash on-site will pay more for security than a standard office.
Type of Security Service
Hiring a static guard for eight hours every night is more expensive than using mobile patrols or a key holding service. You might choose a combination of these services to balance cost and security needs.
Contract Length and Flexibility
Security firms often offer discounts for long-term contracts. One-off services, such as hiring a security team for an event or short-term coverage, usually cost more per hour.
How Much Do Different Security Services Cost?
Static Security Guards
A fully licensed SIA security guard in London costs between £17 and £25 per hour, depending on experience and responsibilities. If you need a dog handler or armed guard, prices go up to £35–£50 per hour. Some security companies charge extra for night shifts, weekends, or additional training.
Mobile Security Patrols
A mobile patrol is a cost-effective option if you don’t need a full-time guard. Prices start at £25 per visit, but the cost depends on how often patrols are carried out. If you need patrols every hour, expect to pay more than if they come a few times per night. Security firms provide GPS tracking and incident reports, which help you monitor patrol effectiveness.
Key Holding and Alarm Response
This service means a security company holds your keys and responds to alarms on your behalf. Monthly fees range from £20 to £80, with call-out fees of £30 to £100 per visit. Response times affect costs—faster guarantees come at a premium.
Is It Cheaper to Hire In-House Security or Use a Private Firm?
In-House Security
If you hire security staff directly, you are responsible for salaries, training, insurance, and equipment. A full-time security officer earns around £25,000 to £35,000 per year, plus pension contributions and other benefits. You will also need to cover SIA licensing costs, uniforms, and possibly CCTV monitoring systems.
Outsourcing to a Security Firm
Most businesses choose to outsource security because it is more flexible and cost-effective. You only pay for what you need and do not have to worry about recruitment, training, or management. Security firms also provide backup staff, insurance, and compliance with SIA regulations.
How Can You Get the Best Security at the Right Price?
Compare Quotes – Get estimates from multiple security providers to find the best deal.
Check Credentials – Ensure guards are SIA-licensed and the company holds the relevant insurances. Accreditations like SafeContractor are beneficial as well.
Assess Your Needs – Don’t pay for unnecessary extras. If mobile patrols are enough, you might not need a full-time guard.
Negotiate Long-Term Contracts – Many security firms offer discounts for ongoing contracts instead of short-term hires.
Review Security Reports – If you use mobile patrols or key holding services, make sure you receive incident reports and GPS logs.
Night security is an investment in your business’s safety and peace of mind. Whether you need a static guard, mobile patrols, or alarm response, understanding costs and security options will help you make the best choice for your budget and security needs.
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