How Static Guarding Impacts Property Management

How Does Static Guarding Protect Your Property and Improve Management?

Static guards protect the property‘s fabric by serving as on site building managers who keep control of who is permitted into the building and checking common areas of the building regularly such as washrooms and kitchenettes for sanitary and operable purposes. They also serve as someone to handle the call out and mediation service for any mechanical failures in the building such as lifts or doors. By deterring crime, responding quickly to incidents, and keeping on top of facilities, static guards play a primary role in property management. They are basically the eyes and ears of the building manager and result in higher tenant satisfaction and a reduction in the workload of the property manager. So whether you are managing a residential apartment block or a commercial office space, if you understand how static guarding can work in your favour you will be in a better position to decide if it is the right solution for one or more of your portfolio of properties. Keep reading on to learn about the service benefits, it’s challenges, and how it compares to other security options.

2. How Does Static Guarding Work in Property Management?

Static guards actively monitor entry points, check credentials and conduct regular patrols to ensure everything is in order and is it should be. For tenants, this means having someone who’s approachable and ready to help if they feel unsafe or notice suspicious activity or someone to notify the cleaning company of a spillage or a maintenance company of a faulty light or leaking tap.

In reality, security guards work closely with property managers to carry out the day to day service plan. For instance, they may monitor CCTV cameras, control access during peak hours, or provide handle couriers and post room activities. By integrating with the building security measures that are already in place, such as alarms and surveillance systems, static guards add a human layer that technology alone can’t replace, not to mention customer service with a smile and an on site point of contact for tenant related matters making them a core part of a sound property management plan.

3. What Are the Benefits of Static Guarding for Property Management?

The benefits of static guarding extend beyond just security. Here are a few reasons property managers rely on this service:

• Static guarding offers more than just security, providing multiple benefits that property managers rely on.
• Guards act as a visible deterrent, making opportunists think twice before targeting a monitored property.
• They’re ready to respond quickly to incidents, whether it’s a break-in, fire alarm, or medical emergency, ensuring swift action when it’s needed most.
• Tenants feel safer knowing there’s someone on-site, which improves their overall satisfaction and peace of mind.
• It can even save money, as some insurance providers offer lower premiums for properties with professional security measures.
• A consistent security presence builds trust, reassuring tenants and visitors while enhancing the property’s reputation.

Having static guards is like adding an extra layer of care for your property, ensuring that everyone feels safe and secure.

4. What Challenges Come with Static Guarding?

Static guarding provides undeniable security benefits, but it also comes with its share of challenges. Understanding these challenges helps property managers make informed decisions about whether static guarding is indeed the right fit for their properties needs.

• Cost of Implementation
  One of the biggest hurdles is the cost. Hiring professional guards especially for 12 hour shifts or 24 hours per day can strain budgets, particularly for smaller properties or businesses. Beyond salaries, costs include training, uniforms, and ongoing certifications. However, this expense needs to be weighed against the potential losses from theft, vandalism, or tenant dissatisfaction without proper security. Some properties opt for a Monday to Friday service 8am to 7pm for example and then rely on access control out of hours.

• Recruiting and Retaining Qualified Guards
  Finding the right security company with good fit personnel isn’t easy. Static guards require more than technical training; they need excellent interpersonal skills, strong problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure. 

• Balancing Security with Tenant Privacy
  While a guard’s presence provides safety, if the wrong fit personnel is deployed tenants or visitors might feel uneasy with a too keen eye holding them under constant surveillance or having intense interactions, especially in residential or mixed-use properties. The security company in situ must ensure that guards are respectful of personal boundaries while maintaining an active presence.

• Monotony and Alertness
  Static guarding involves long periods of inactivity, which can sometimes lead to boredom or complacency if they are not managed correctly. Maintaining sharpness and vigilance during quiet hours is key, but it’s a challenge that guards and their employers should address through regular training and engagement techniques.

• Legal and Compliance Issues
  Employing static guards comes with regulatory requirements. From obtaining the right licenses to complying with local employment laws and GDPR guidelines (if using CCTV or data collection), property managers must ensure that all legalities are met. Any lapses can lead to fines or reputational damage.

• New and Emerging Threats
  Static guarding must adapt to new challenges, such as advancements in criminal techniques or changes in tenant needs. Guards require ongoing training and support to stay ahead of these evolving risks, making it a continuous investment rather than a one-time setup.

 Addressing these challenges is important for maximising the effectiveness of any static guarding service and by carefully selecting the best static security company and supporting guards, maintaining clear communication with tenants, and staying up to date on security trends, property managers can overcome these obstacles and create a safer, more secure environment.

5. How Can You Make Static Guarding Work Effectively?

Making static guarding effective requires careful planning and communication. Start by conducting a thorough risk assessment of your property to identify its vulnerabilities. For example, is your car park a hotspot for break-ins? Are there areas with poor lighting that might attract loiterers? By pinpointing these risks, you can create a security plan tailored to your property’s needs.

Clear protocols are also essential. Guards should know what procedures they need to follow in any given situation within reason. So that could be handling a suspicious package or dealing with a difficult tenant or responding to an emergency. Providing regular training and clear instructions helps ensure they’re prepared for anything.

Technology can also play a big role. Combining static guarding with tools like CCTV cameras, access control systems, and incident reporting software can make your property even safer.

6. How Does Static Guarding Compare to Other Security Options?

If you’re wondering whether static guarding is the best choice, it’s worth comparing it to other security options:

• Mobile patrols: These involve guards driving or walking around a property at set intervals. While cost-effective, they don’t offer the continuous presence of static guarding.
• CCTV and alarms: Technology is great for monitoring and alerting, but it can’t physically intervene in incidents. Static guards complement these systems by providing immediate, on-the-ground action.
• Remote monitoring: This is cheaper but lacks the human touch that static guarding provides. A static guard can address issues in real time, whereas remote monitoring may rely on slow communication with off-site responders.

Ultimately, static guarding is ideal for properties that need a consistent, personalised security presence.

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7. Is Static Guarding the Right Choice for Your Property?

Deciding whether to use static guarding depends on your property’s specific needs. If safety, tenant satisfaction, and quick response times are priorities, static guards could be a worthwhile investment. For properties that face regular risks, such as commercial buildings or high-traffic residential complexes, static guarding offers peace of mind that other solutions can’t match.

That said, it’s all about finding the right balance. By combining static guarding with other security measures, you can create a comprehensive system that protects your property without breaking the bank.