Selecting the right security firm is one of the most critical decisions a business or estate can make. In Kenya's competitive security market, not all providers offer the same level of professionalism, compliance, and service quality. This guide outlines the key factors to verify before signing any security contract.

PSRA Licensing: The Foundation of Legitimacy

The Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) is the government body responsible for licensing and regulating security companies in Kenya. Any legitimate security firm must hold a valid PSRA license. Don't just take their word for it - request to see the actual license certificate and verify the license number with PSRA directly. Companies operating without proper licensing expose you to legal liability and unreliable service.

Training Standards and Certifications

Professional security guards should undergo comprehensive training that includes access control procedures, emergency response protocols, customer service skills, first aid certification, fire safety training, and rights-based security practices. Ask prospective security firms about their training programs - the best companies provide 120+ hours of initial training plus ongoing refresher courses. Request to see training certificates and curriculum details.

Staffing and Supervision

Reliable guard deployment is crucial. Inquire about the company's pool of standby personnel - reputable firms maintain backup guards to ensure continuous coverage if scheduled personnel cannot report. Ask about their supervision structure: how often do supervisors visit deployment sites? What reporting mechanisms are in place? Quality firms conduct daily supervisor visits and provide detailed shift reports.

Response Time Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

For alarm response and emergency backup, specific response time guarantees should be documented in your contract. Industry standards in major Kenyan cities are 10-15 minutes for alarm activations. Ask about their mobile patrol units, control room operations, and geographic coverage. Request references from current clients to verify actual response times.

Insurance and Liability Coverage

A professional security firm should carry comprehensive insurance including employer's liability (covering their own staff), public liability (protecting you from third-party claims), and fidelity guarantee bonds (protecting against guard misconduct). Request current insurance certificates and verify coverage limits match the value of assets being protected.

Labor Law Compliance

Ensure the company maintains full compliance with Kenyan labor laws including NSSF contributions for all guards, NHIF/SHA registration, minimum wage compliance, proper employment contracts, and adherence to working hour regulations. Non-compliant companies may face labor disputes that disrupt your security coverage.

Contract Terms and Flexibility

Carefully review termination clauses, notice periods, price escalation terms, service level commitments, and dispute resolution procedures. Reputable firms offer trial periods for new clients and pro-rated refunds for unsatisfactory service.

By thoroughly vetting security providers against these criteria, you protect your organization from compliance risks, service failures, and legal liabilities while ensuring professional, reliable security coverage.