Starting a security company is a great way to expand your business profile. Security companies can provide work for those looking and help protect businesses. Additionally, private security companies can fill in the gaps left by public security.
A private security company is a business that provides armed or unarmed security services to clients in the public and private sectors. Some private security companies in South Africa include Fidelity Security, Bloemsec, and G4S Security.
If you are looking to expand into the private security industry, there are certain skills you will need.
In this article, we look at the requirements for starting your private security company.
1. Register your Private Security Company
Like any company, you need to register with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). To register your business, you will need your ID, the name of the company, company income tax number, and R 175 for the registration process.
It’s important to register your business because this means you are complying with the law.
2. Register with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA)
The PSiRA is the regulatory body that oversees the private security industry. To register your private security, you will need the following:
Proof of company registration with the CIPC.
All members and managers of your company must be registered as a security service provider with Grade B.
Provide a tax clearance certificate, VAT registration number, PAYE number from SARS.
UIF and Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (C.O.I.D). This is only applicable if you are already registered with the Department of Labour.
Have a 1-year business plan.
Declare your business’ capability to operate for the next year.
Physical office premises.
3. Individual Registration with PSiRA
PSiRA also requires that you as the business owner register before starting operations. To register, you need the following:
Be older than 18.
Permanent resident of South Africa.
Not have any previous criminal offences.
Complete training at an accredited training centre.
You must not be a member of any official military, security police or intelligence force in South Africa or elsewhere.
Pay the registration fee.
4. Customer Service
If you are running a business, having good customer service is vital. With a private security company, you need customer service because you will be dealing with people.
Security guards are the first person anyone meets at a company. You need to be friendly, accommodating and respectful. This not only applies to you but will also apply to your future employees.
5. Detail-oriented
Being detail-oriented means having the skill to be observant, reliable and trustworthy. Being able to notice the little details will help you be able to protect your customers and ensure that you do the job thoroughly.
Being detailed in your job allows you to do your job properly and secures future security contracts for your business.
6. Training and Licensing
As a private security company, you need to have the appropriate training and qualifications before taking on contracts. Security guards are rated by ‘Grades’. Grades range from E (patrol officer) to Grade A (management). Security qualifications also include retail security, response security and general security.
Additionally, you will need to get a firearm licence. To get a firearm you must undergo training at an accredited institution and obtain a training certificate. Once you have the certificate, you can apply for a firearm licence at your nearest police station.
Note: You must get a licence for every firearm you have. And you must renew the licence 90 days before it expires.
7. Leadership
Leadership is a vital skill in any business. As an entrepreneur, you need to be able to lead the business and your employees.
As the owner of a private security company, you need to be able to lead your security guards to be competent and strong. Most security guards are men, so you will need to be a strong leader.
These are just some of the skills you need to have a private security company. Like any other business, you also need to be competent in financial management, marketing and sales, and communication.
Don’t wait any longer, start your private security company today!
For more information on how to start your business, visit the SME South Africa website. Even better! Book an appointment with one of our experts on SME Advice.
Starting a security company is a great way to expand your business profile. Security companies can provide work for those looking and help protect businesses. Additionally, private security companies can Read More
