Key holding security is a simple yet effective way to protect your business. By entrusting a professional security company with the keys to your property, you ensure a fast and reliable response to alarms and emergencies, no matter the time of day. This service takes the pressure off business owners, offering peace of mind and increasing overall safety.

In this article, we’ll explain what key holding security is, why it’s so important, and how it can benefit your business. Whether you run a small shop or manage a large office complex, key holding security could be the solution you’ve been looking for to keep your property safe.

What Is A Key Holder?

In security terms, a key holder is responsible for managing and safeguarding a business’s keys, particularly during times when the premises are closed or vacant.

A key holding service is designed to protect business owners and their employees by maintaining a secure spare key to the property. This service not only ensures quick access in emergencies, such as lost or stolen keys, but also provides 24/7 assistance for any security issues that may arise. It’s a reliable solution to keep business premises safe and secure, even outside of operating hours.

Can Anyone Do This Role?

In theory, anyone can become a key holder if they meet specific qualifications. The role requires a valid SIA license, being at least 18 years old, and passing background checks, including a criminal record check.

A key holding service focus solely on managing keys and responding to alarms, ensuring businesses remain secure. Somebody in this position isn’t authorised to perform more advanced security duties, such as searching premises or providing on-site protection.

For those looking to take on more responsibilities, such as manned guarding alongside key management, additional SIA training is required to qualify as a security key holder. This distinction highlights the difference between managing access and providing comprehensive security services.

What Is A Key Holding Licence?

When it comes to security licences, the most commonly used by key holders is the SIA key holding licence. This front-line licence is specifically for security work involving the management and protection of keys. The licence currently costs £184 and is issued as a letter rather than a plastic card. No specific qualifications or training are required to obtain this licence.

What Key Holding Security Jobs Are There?

This type of security often overlaps with other essential security responsibilities, creating diverse job opportunities within the field. Many security key holders also take on roles that include manned guarding and general security duties. Here are some positions where key holding security plays a vital role:

Security Concierge

Monitors CCTV, coordinates with security teams, and responds to incidents. They may also contact authorities when needed.

Mobile Patrol Officers

These individuals are trained to respond to on-site emergencies. This includes investigating a triggered alarm, handling intruders, or resolving technical problems with the alarm system. Most companies require that people in this role know how to drive a motorbike so they can assist faster.

Respond to emergencies, including triggered alarms and intruders, ensuring swift action is taken.

Security Manager

Oversees security teams, ensuring proper protocols and high service standards are followed.

What Duties Are Involved In The Role?

Key holders have various responsibilities, which can vary depending on the type of organisation they work for. Their primary duties typically include:

• Keeping the keys to the building safe.
• Responding to security alarms.
• Ensuring premises are open and closed each day.
• Keeping business owners informed about any issues that arise.
• Adhering to the key holding service agreement.

What Does A Security Key Holder Do? -look at this

Security key holders perform duties similar to those of regular key holders but with a greater emphasis on security. Their primary responsibilities include:

• Acting as the main contact for alarm responses and investigating any triggered alarms.
• Ensuring the business is securely opened and closed each day.
• Managing access control for the premises.
• Reporting any security incidents, breaches, or suspicious activities.
• Conducting regular patrols of the site to ensure smooth operations.
• Upholding the key holder agreement.

What Is A Key Holder Agreement?

Both regular and security key holders must adhere to a key holder agreement as a fundamental responsibility. This agreement is typically established between the business owner and the key holder, outlining the key holder’s responsibility for the keys and the procedures to follow if the keys are lost or misused. A key holder agreement is essential for protecting the organisation’s assets and maintaining the security of the premises.

This is an essential aspect of any key holding service. A keyholder agreement is a formal document that sets clear expectations between the business owner and the key holder, detailing their responsibilities and the required protocols.

It outlines how keys should be managed, what steps to take if they are lost or compromised, and the key holder’s role in ensuring the security of the premises. By setting clear guidelines, the agreement helps safeguard business property and maintain security standards.

How Much Does A Key Holder Earn?

Salaries in key holding services, like any industry, depend on experience, skills, and the specific role.

According to Talent, entry-level roles start at £22,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn up to £31,000. On average, key holders in the UK take home around £24,000 per year.

Is This Security Solution Right for You?

Key holding and alarm response offer a reliable security solution for businesses in any industry.

If protecting your property and inventory from theft or damage is a priority, partnering with a professional key holding service is a smart move. Not only does it lighten your responsibilities as a business owner, but it also provides peace of mind knowing experts will handle emergencies safely and efficiently.

What’s Included In A Key Holding Service?

Although the exact services can vary depending on the security firm., most key holding security companies offer the following services:

Alarm Response

When a security alarm is triggered, a trained professional is dispatched immediately to assess the situation. They’ll handle technical issues, cancel false alarms to avoid unnecessary costs, and ensure the property remains secure.

Intruder Handling

If an intruder is detected, an expert key holding service ensures security professionals handle the situation until law enforcement arrives. A detailed incident will also be provided which can be used for legal and insurance reasons.

Vacant Property Checks

A key holding service often includes vacant property checks, ideal for residential and commercial landlords. These checks keep properties secure from vandals, squatters, and fly-tippers while identifying maintenance issues. This also helps to maintain the property’s value while it isn’t being used.

How Much Does This Security Service Cost?

When it comes to pricing key holding services, security firms must consider several factors before providing a quote to their clients. Key factors influencing the cost include:

When pricing a key holding service, security companies consider several factors before providing a quote. These include:

Assets That Need Protection:

The type of assets being protected can impact pricing. Businesses with high-value items, like jewellery or luxury goods, often require advanced alarm systems and security guards with specialised training.

Business Location:

Location is a significant factor in determining cost. Businesses in areas with higher crime rates typically face higher quotes than those in quieter, residential areas.

Type of Facility:

The nature of the facility also impacts the price. Facilities with complex layouts, multiple entry points, or specialised security needs, such as data centres or warehouses with sensitive equipment, often require more extensive security measures and therefore incur higher costs.

The complexity of the facility also impacts pricing. For example, locations with multiple entry points, complex layouts, or specialised security needs, such as data centres or warehouses, may require more extensive security measures. As a result, these types of properties typically have higher costs for key holding services.

Despite these factors, it’s important to remember that the final price will be tailored to your business’s specific circumstances and requirements.

What Are The Benefits Of A Key Holding Service?

Key holding security is a valuable solution for businesses. Whether it’s protecting stock or ensuring quick responses to alarms, this service offers several key advantages, as we explore below…

Reduces A Business Owner’s Responsibilities

As a business owner, dealing with security alarms at inconvenient times can be a headache. Whether it’s a false alarm in the middle of the night or an actual break-in, the owner is often the first to be called.

A key holding service takes this burden off the owner’s shoulders, ensuring they don’t have to respond to alarms or risk their safety in dangerous situations.

Ensures That Proper Security Procedures Are Enforced

A key holding service ensures that all security protocols are followed and reduces the risk of breaches.

Professional key holders are trained to handle various emergency situations, including intruder alerts and alarm malfunctions. They act quickly to secure the premises, manage access, and take necessary actions without compromising the safety of the business or its assets.

With their expertise, businesses can trust that all procedures, from securing the building to resetting alarm systems, are carried out efficiently and correctly.

Provides 24/7 Support

Unlike relying on employees or family members, a professional key holding security guarantees availability at any time of day or night.

With a trusted service holding the spare key, business owners can rest assured knowing that help is always just a phone call away, and emergencies will be handled efficiently by trained professionals.

So, What Is Key Holding?

Key holding security services offer invaluable protection for businesses. With trained professionals managing keys and responding to alarms, business owners can minimise risk and avoid unnecessary disruptions.

It’s an investment that can protect both your assets and your employees.

If you’re considering a reliable key holding service, Region Security Guarding is here to help. Our experienced team provides tailored security solutions to meet your business’s unique needs. Contact us today to enquire about our key holding security services and find out how we can support your business.