What is Security Guard Insurance?
Security guard insurance is an insurance policy designed for people that work in the security industry. It includes bouncers, private security guards, security guards in malls, security monitoring firms, individuals working in business security, and more.
Security guard insurance is designed to include various insurance products that provide coverage and protection for those working in the security industry against liability claims, losses, property damage, bodily injuries, litigations, and more to other security guards or third-party bystanders.
Whether you are an armed or unarmed security guard employed by an individual or working for a company, security guard insurance will ensure you are protected from risks and liability.
How Security Guard Insurance Works
Any company or independent contractor that offers security guard services should have a proper insurance coverage policy. The exact amount of your coverage limit depends on the type of policy you choose. Some factors to consider include:
- Industry and the type of work you do
- The risks you are exposed to
- Your claims history
- Before purchasing security guard insurance, you should always do your research and compare quotes to find the most suitable package.
Factors Influencing the Security Guard Company Insurance Cost
Understanding Insurance for Security Companies in Canada
What Does Security Guard Insurance Typically Include?
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General Liability Coverage: Most general liability policies for security companies cover claims of bodily injury and property damage incurred by third parties, such as clients or bystanders. This is fundamental for any security company to protect against claims resulting from accidents or incidents during their operations.
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Property Insurance: This ensures that damages or losses to properties under a security company’s watch are covered. If a security company fails to secure a site, leading to property damage or theft, this insurance provides compensation.
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Commercial General Liability (CGL) Insurance: Often referred to as a CGL policy, this insurance goes a step further by covering the costs arising from third-party liability claims. This includes medical expenses resulting from injuries or property damages incurred by clients or bystanders due to the services of the security company.
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Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Also known as professional liability insurance, E&O covers third-party claims resulting from errors or negligence during the provision of security services. For instance, if a client alleges injury due to a security company’s failure to adhere to standard protocols, E&O insurance covers the legal defense costs, settlements, and more.
What Makes Insurance For A Security Company In Canada Unique?
Why Standard Commercial General Liability Policies Fall Short for Security Companies?
Key Coverage Considerations for Security Companies:
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Care, Custody, and Control Exclusion: Traditional policies may exclude coverage for damages to property under a company’s care, custody, or control. For security companies, this is a significant gap. Their policy should ensure that this exclusion doesn’t apply to the property they’re entrusted to protect.
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Broadened Personal Injury Extension: Given the nature of their work, security personnel may face claims of false arrests, invasion of privacy, or discrimination. Therefore, their insurance should have an expanded personal injury extension to cover such claims.
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Absence of Failure to Perform Exclusion: Security companies should ensure their policy does not have a “failure to perform” exclusion. This is vital because if, for any reason, the company fails to deliver on its promised services, it could face substantial claims.
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Intentional Injury Coverage: During their duty, security personnel might need to use force to protect property or persons. Any intentional harm caused in these situations should not be excluded from the coverage.
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Coverage for Damages to Protected Property: Security companies bear the responsibility for properties under their watch. Thus, their insurance policy must cover any loss or damage to such properties, ensuring this isn’t excluded.
What Types of Specialized Insurance Products Are Available For Security Companies?
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Insurance for alarm monitoring operations and call centres
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Insurance for investigate services
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Insurance for security guards including stationary, mobile and emergency response
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Insurance for armoured car companies
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Insurance for security product manufacturers
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Insurance for security system installers and/or access control professionals
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Insurance for security training facilities
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Insurance for sprinkler design and installation companies
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Insurance for event security, doormen & bouncers