Before looking at security products or systems, we recommend you allocate a specific budget, and devise a rolling programme, to combat crime and vandalism.
Selecting your security
You should always seek direction from your insurance company about the nature and quality of protection that they demand. They may also provide a list of companies they consider to be of good standing in any particular sector. Always use reputable companies who are members of trade organisations, or use verbal recommendation by satisfied customers.
Sourcing a supplier
You need to consider the following:
- How long has the company been trading?
- Can it provide an on-going service?
- Is it a member of a recognised industry body or association?
- What is the level of training and qualifications of the staff?
- Can the company carry out all of the work itself or is some sub-contracted?
- Does the company specialise in any particular field?
- Is it adequately covered by insurance?
- Can it provide a list of references in the form of satisfied customers?
You may also wish to visit the national police site, Secured By Design:
http://www.securedbydesign.com/
Secured by Design (SBD) is an ACPO crime prevention initiative that works to reduce crime in the built environment. The SBD logo is the only symbol that guarantees national Police approval of a security product or service. Products displaying the SBD logo have been certified to ACPO approved national security standards or, in the absence of a relevant national standard, subjected to rigorous testing by an accredited third party.
The SBD website contains a list of licensed products and installers along with building and security guidelines and information on how to make premises more secure
Draw up accurate guidelines
Having drawn up a shortlist of companies, you need to specify the exact nature of your problem.
Let the experts provide the specialist knowledge about possible solutions. There are often several options that could satisfactorily meet your needs. Ensure the advantages and disadvantages of each clearly explained.
You may also wish to contact your local Police Architectural Liaison Officer for advise.
Obtain a written guarantee of provision
Always get a specification, written in layman's terms, of precisely what the supplier is agreeing to provide, e.g. How many cameras will be installed, how many guards will be employed (and the hours they will work) and of course, the costs. Having spoken to at least three companies, set out the specifications and obtained quotes, you can then make an informed choice.
