Security
How to Start a Security Company in the UK?
Table of contents
Introduction
Narrow down to a niche
Define a business model
Obtain SIA Licences
Insure your business
Market your services
Hire staff
Wrapping up
Since 2021, there has been an 8% increase in the overall crime rate in the UK. Society needs more companies to secure their businesses and properties, which has created a demand for security companies in the UK.
This guide will help you understand what steps you need to take before starting a security company in the UK from the very beginning.
Narrow down to a niche
You should narrow down to one service. Defining and being specific about your services is the key here. Some of the services that you can offer include:
- Security guard services
- CCTV surveillance
- Alarm monitoring
- Cybersecurity services
- Security consultancy
- Security training
The list goes on and on…
Choose one service and stick with it. Ideally, you should have experience in the service you want to build a business around. Understanding how the industry works is essential when starting a security venture.
For instance, if you have been an SIA trainer, it’s a good idea to leverage your teaching experience and create a business focused on providing security training to individuals in the UK.
Similarly, if you have worked as a door supervisor or security guard. In that case, you already have expertise in handling emotive situations, so you could base your business on providing security guard services in the UK.
However, if you’re new to the industry and lack real experience, taking a relevant course first and gaining hands-on experience is advisable. At Hurak, we offer various courses, most of which can be completed in a few days. Investing your time and money in these courses will be beneficial in the long run. Here are some courses we offer:
Door Supervisor Course
Security Guard Course
Close Protection Course
SIA Trainers Package
CCTV Operator
Define a business model
Once you’ve chosen your niche and identified your target audience, it’s time to define your business model. Here are some options to consider:
- Buy an existing business
This option eliminates the need to hire staff, create a brand, or build a customer base from scratch. It’s a more costly choice since you’re acquiring an established business.
- Choose a franchise model
With this model, you benefit from an established brand’s reputation in the market. You essentially borrow that brand image and build your business around it, which requires less effort on branding and reputation-building.
- Start your own business from scratch
This option is cost-effective, but it means you’ll need to handle everything, including training, branding, marketing, generating sales, managing finances, and more.
After deciding on your business model, the next step is to obtain the necessary certifications.Â
Obtain SIA Licences
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) oversees the private security industry and issues licences to ensure accountability. They offer licences for both front-line and non-front-line roles, so it’s crucial to define your services before applying for an SIA licence.
For any service you plan to offer, you’ll need the relevant SIA licence. Put simply, if you aim to run a company providing security guard services in the UK, you must obtain an SIA licence confirming your appropriate training for this role.
If you don’t currently have an SIA licence, you can obtain one by completing a licence-linked course from SIA-approved training providers. At Hurak, we offer various courses, such as Door Supervisor, Security Guard, CCTV Operator, Close Protection, and more. You can enrol on these courses, complete the training, and then undergo an assessment. If you pass, you’ll receive a certificate, which you can use to apply for an SIA licence.
There are no specific courses for running a security company. Always make sure that the individuals you delegate security tasks to have the appropriate qualifications, as negligence in this regard could harm your company’s reputation.
Insure your business
Most of the time, people won’t hire a company that isn’t insured. Having insurance adds an extra layer of security that alleviates their concerns about a business.
Here are some insurance options to consider:
– Public liability insurance
– Professional indemnity insurance
– Employers liability insurance
You can explore a list of insurance companies and reach out to their customer support to inquire if they offer packages tailored for security businesses.
Market your services
No business can survive without a proper marketing plan. It generates leads and revenue. To succeed, you can hire a marketing agency or freelance workers. If you want to understand marketing services, consider these steps:
1. Create a website – Having a dedicated website is important in this digital age. It allows your business to operate 24/7 and automate processes for a better return on investment (ROI). List your services and maintain a credible online presence.
If you haven't chosen your business name yet, consider using a business name generator
2. Use social media – Utilize a brochure maker to design visually appealing content. Create profiles on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and more. Consistently share valuable content, interact with your audience, respond to inquiries, foster trust, and enhance your online credibility.
3. Advertise your products – Google Ads are an effective way to get your message out there. You can hire a freelancer to manage ad campaigns for you.
4. Attract organic traffic – Create content related to your services and publish it online. Let search algorithms connect you with your audience.
5. Build a customer support team – To handle calls from potential customers, hire customer support specialists and provide training.
Maintain professionalism, as it’s crucial for business owners. Analyse your growth, and if necessary, consult marketing experts to develop a growth plan.
Hire staff
To run a successful business, it’s essential to understand the importance of delegation and task management. Since we all have the same 24 hours in a day, a leader’s focus should be on dedicating their time to high-priority tasks. This is why, at some point, you’ll need to hire staff.
You can use platforms like LinkedIn to post a detailed job description for the candidates you want to bring on board. Conduct interviews and assess their qualifications. As Herb Kelleher wisely said,
                    “Hire for attitude, train for skills.”
For training your team, consider Hurak, where we offer a variety of security courses. We have been in the education industry for the past 13 years, with the aim of promoting skill development across various sectors. You can reach us at 0333 344 1293, Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm (excluding bank holidays).
Wrapping up
You’ve gone through this beginner’s guide to starting a security business in the UK, and with this plan, you’ve got your basics covered.
Starting a business is a lot like sowing a seed. You must meet all the necessary requirements, yet it doesn’t always guarantee the results you desire. That’s when you must support yourself, stay resilient, and keep working hard, as that’s the only way forward.
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