Security Guard Companies questions, answered straight

The questions below are the ones business owners ask right before they hand over money — and the ones the internet answers worst. Most of what comes back is a lead form or a sales page. These are plain answers with nothing to sell.

• When is a fire watch required?

  A fire watch is required when your fire alarm or sprinkler system is out of service — but the trigger is 4 hours for alarms and 10 cumulative hours for sprinklers. Here's the difference, and who you have to call.

• How much does it cost to hire a security guard?

  Guard companies bill an hourly rate per officer, but the number moves with armed vs unarmed, shift length, and coverage hours. Here's what actually changes the price and what to ask before you sign.

• How do I keep my construction site from being robbed at night?

  Copper, tools, fuel and catalytic converters walk off job sites overnight. Here's how guards, mobile patrols, and camera trailers actually compare — and which one fits your site.