Security guard cost Chicago clients pay has no single price, because it depends on your site and your needs. Here is what moves the number, so you can compare proposals fairly.
1. Armed or Unarmed
Armed guards and off-duty police need more training and authorization (Illinois licensing is handled by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation), so they cost more than unarmed guards. Many sites don’t need a firearm. See armed vs. unarmed guards.
2. Number of Guards
One guard at a front desk is different from a team at a large property or event.
3. Hours and Schedule
Total hours matter: 24/7 coverage, overnights only or a few shifts a week. Nights, weekends and holidays can cost more than weekday days.
4. Type of Post
A fixed post at a door, a roving patrol, gate control and fire watch each involve different duties and different cost. See construction site security and fire watch.
5. Site Size and Risk
A larger property, more entrances or a history of incidents can call for more guards or more experienced ones.
6. Special Requirements
Client-specific training, reporting, uniforms or equipment, and requirements from a fire marshal, general contractor or insurer.
7. One-Time vs. Ongoing
Long-term posts, seasonal coverage and one-time events are priced differently. Events also depend on attendance and venue.
8. Notice
More planning time generally gives more staffing options, especially for large events.
Security Guard Cost Chicago: What to Ask Every Company
- What exactly is included in the rate?
- Who is on my site, and how are they trained and supervised?
- What happens if a guard calls out?
- Are there extra charges for holidays, short notice or cancellations?
- How are incidents reported to me?
The cheapest proposal is not always the lowest cost. Gaps in coverage and weak reporting are expensive too.
Pricing also depends on the kind of property. See how we handle property management security, and learn more about working with a Chicago security guard company.
Thinking about changing providers? See how to switch security guard companies.
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