Choosing the right security company requires understanding licensing requirements, service options, and what to expect from professional security guards. Since 1997, Scaife Protection Services has helped thousands of Los Angeles businesses, property managers, and organizations navigate their security needs.
Below you'll find comprehensive answers to the most common questions about hiring armed security guards, unarmed security personnel, and understanding California security regulations. Whether you need construction site security, warehouse protection, or 24-hour coverage, these answers will help you make informed decisions.
Most Common Security Service Questions
Licensing & Company Verification
How do I verify a security company is legitimate in California?
Every legitimate security company must hold a California Private Patrol Operator (PPO) license issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). Verify licensing, insurance coverage, and experience before signing any contract. Learn how to verify security companies →
What is a PPO license and why does it matter?
California law requires all security service providers to hold a valid PPO license. This ensures the company meets state standards for training, insurance, and legal compliance. Understand California security licensing →
Security Service Options
What types of security guard services are available in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles security companies provide armed guards, unarmed guards, mobile patrol services, fire watch, construction security, warehouse security, and event security. Each serves different security needs and risk levels. Explore all security service types →
What's the difference between armed and unarmed security guards?
Armed guards carry firearms and provide maximum deterrence for high-risk environments or valuable assets. Unarmed guards offer professional monitoring, access control, and patrols at lower cost for general security needs. Compare armed vs unarmed security →
Do I need 24-hour security coverage?
Properties with overnight vulnerability, high-value inventory, or continuous operations benefit from round-the-clock protection. 24-hour security services ensure no gaps in your security coverage. Learn about 24/7 coverage options →
Costs & Pricing
How much do security guards cost in Los Angeles?
Security guard costs vary based on armed vs unarmed guards, coverage hours, and service type. Most Los Angeles security services range from standard hourly rates for unarmed guards to premium rates for armed protection. Get detailed pricing information →
Can I get an instant security quote online?
Yes! Use our Build-Guard online quote tool to select your security needs and receive an instant price estimate. Choose your service type, coverage hours, and location to see transparent pricing.
What factors affect security guard pricing?
Service type (armed vs unarmed), total hours per week, number of guards needed, location, and contract duration all influence costs. Higher-volume commitments often qualify for better rates due to scheduling efficiency. Understanding security costs →
Hiring & Deployment
How quickly can security guards be deployed in Los Angeles?
Scaife Protection Services offers same-day security guard deployment throughout Los Angeles County. For urgent needs following break-ins, insurance requirements, or sudden project starts, we can have licensed guards on-site within hours. Learn about same-day deployment →
What should I ask when hiring a security company?
Key questions include verifying PPO licensing, insurance coverage, guard training programs, supervision methods, and emergency response procedures. Request copies of all licenses and insurance certificates before signing contracts. Complete hiring guide →
What qualifications should security guards have?
All security guards in California must hold valid BSIS Guard Cards, pass background checks, complete state-mandated training, and maintain current certifications. Armed guards require additional firearms qualifications. California licensing requirements →
Industry-Specific Security
What security services do construction sites need?
Construction sites require 24/7 protection against equipment theft, material loss, vandalism, and unauthorized access. Professional construction security guards provide perimeter patrols, access control, and equipment monitoring. Construction security guide →
How does warehouse security differ from general security?
Warehouse security requires specialized knowledge of logistics operations, loading dock procedures, inventory protection, and access control for high-volume facilities. Guards must balance strict security with operational efficiency. Warehouse security FAQ →
What makes industrial security different?
Industrial facilities need security personnel trained in OSHA safety, forklift awareness, cargo theft prevention, and emergency protocols specific to manufacturing and distribution environments.
Technology & Monitoring
What is the Guard Dashboard monitoring system?
The Guard Dashboard provides GPS-tracked patrols, digital incident reporting, photo documentation, and real-time alerts. Clients access 24/7 portal visibility into guard activity and facility status. Technology & accountability →
How do you verify guards are actually patrolling?
GPS time-stamped check-ins provide verifiable proof guards completed rounds at specified times and locations. All patrol activity is documented with timestamps and photo evidence.
What reporting do security guards provide?
Guards submit detailed daily activity reports, incident documentation with photos, patrol logs, and access records. Critical incidents trigger immediate client notifications.
In-Depth FAQ Resources
For detailed answers on specific topics, explore our comprehensive FAQ pages:
Service-Specific Questions
Pricing & Contracts
Verification & Compliance
Capabilities & Differentiation
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Contact Scaife Protection Services today for your security consultation
License: PPO-12958 | Fully licensed, bonded, and insured
Why Choose Scaife Protection Services?
With 27 years protecting Los Angeles businesses and properties, Scaife Protection Services delivers the expertise, responsiveness, and professionalism you need from a security provider.
California Licensed & Fully Insured: PPO #12958 with $1,000,000 general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage
Same-Day Deployment: Licensed guards available within hours for urgent security needs throughout Los Angeles County
Technology-Enhanced Security: GPS-tracked patrols, digital reporting, and client portal access for complete transparency
Specialized Training: Guards trained in construction security, warehouse operations, building protection, and industry-specific protocols
Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of Los Angeles neighborhoods, crime patterns, and security requirements across all communities we serve
Get Expert Security Answers Today
Still have questions about security guard services in Los Angeles? Our security experts are available to provide personalized guidance for your specific situation.
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