Tue, May 11, 2021
Read in 10 minutes
If you’re running a security business or hiring guards for your property or event, one thing you absolutely can’t ignore is a security guard contract.
It might seem like just another piece of paperwork, but it plays a crucial role in protecting both the client and the guard service provider. And the best part? You don’t need to be a legal expert or spend hours drafting one — we’ve got free downloadable security service contracts to get you started.
In this blog, you’ll find:
A security guard contract is a formal agreement between two parties: the client (someone hiring guards) and the security company or individual guard (someone providing the service).
The contract outlines everything both sides need to know:
This kind of contract is important because it brings clarity and protection. It ensures everyone is on the same page, reduces misunderstandings, and acts as legal proof if a problem arises.
Whether you’re hiring a guard for a small event or managing a team of guards across multiple properties, having a security service agreement in place is a must.
To make your life easier, we’ve created 5 free, customizable security contract templates. These are ideal for different types of clients and jobs. Each comes in an editable format so you can adjust them as needed.
This is one of the popular forms of contracts that is being adopted by companies of all sizes. Security agencies offer security guard services that can assign them to different individuals or clients. When it comes to getting the right security guard services, the agency and the client must create the security guard service contract and then finalize the deal.
Most people are not aware of the fact that security guards provide security for a specific location instead of standing anywhere in a premise. There could be multiple examples of on-site security including private events, public gatherings, relocating an item from one place to another, etc.
When it comes to hiring security guards, this five-page contract sample gets signed between the two parties. Talk about the contract provision, they are a series of 20 where the last one is highlighted while the other section is in bold.
It could be said that the importance is given to this section that must not be overlooked.
This kind of security service contract must be signed between the client and the security contractor and must include details like the address of both the parties. The contract should contain a Security service agreement, Disclaimer of the Liability insurance, Payment agreement, Indemnification, the validity of the contract and service termination letter template, etc.
This kind of security guard contract comes with 9 pages wherein the main sections include the performance of services, terms and termination of the contract, limitation of liability, payment, etc.
If your requirements are like this, you can choose any of the security guard contract templates that match your needs.
Even if you’re using a security contract template, it’s helpful to understand how these contracts are written. That way, you can confidently review, edit, or create one from scratch.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to write a security guard contract:
Include:
Example: “This agreement is made between XYZ Security Services and ABC Corporation on June 20, 2025.”
Clearly mention what the guard will be doing. Will they be patrolling, checking IDs, monitoring cameras, or handling emergencies?
Be specific. Instead of “General security duties,” write: “Guard will patrol the parking area every hour, monitor 4 CCTV cameras, and maintain the visitor entry log.”
Specify the start and end dates. Also mention if the contract renews automatically or needs a new agreement.
Example: “This agreement is valid from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, and may be renewed upon mutual agreement.”
Include:
Don’t forget to mention what happens if a payment is delayed.
These will protect both the client and the service provider. We’ll go into more detail on these in the next section.
The agreement is only valid if both parties sign. Include space for:
To make your security guard service agreement legally strong and safe for both sides, you need to include certain standard clauses.
Here are the most important ones:
Clearly outline the guard’s duties. This avoids confusion and scope creep later. This section explains exactly what the security company will do. It might include things like guarding certain areas, watching security cameras, or controlling who can enter the building. By being clear about what services will be provided, both the client and the security company know what to expect.
Example: “The guard will secure the front entrance, manage visitor check-ins, and report suspicious activity.”
List the exact amount to be paid, how often, and how. Mention any taxes or overtime charges. This part tells how and when the security company will get paid. It should include details like the total cost, payment schedule, and what happens if the payment is late. Clear payment terms help avoid any arguments about money.
Example: “Client agrees to pay $2,000 per guard per month, plus applicable taxes.”
Clarify who is responsible if there’s theft, damage, or injury. This section explains who is responsible if something goes wrong. For example, if there’s an accident or damage, who will pay for it? The contract should also say that the security company needs to have enough insurance to cover any problems.
Example: “XYZ Security will not be liable for damages caused due to acts of God or client’s negligence.”
Define how either party can end the contract. Mention the notice period. There should be a clause added in the contract where the terms and conditions for termination of a contract are mentioned. There should be reasons mentioned in the contract like-
Example: “Either party may terminate the contract by giving a 30-day written notice.”
Guards may have access to sensitive areas or information. Include a clause that restricts them from disclosing it. Security companies often learn private information while they’re working, so this section makes sure that information stays secret. It means the security company can’t share what they know with anyone who isn’t supposed to know it.
Example: “The guard agrees not to share client information with third parties during or after employment.”
Mention if the security company carries liability or accident insurance for their staff.
Example: “The company shall maintain liability insurance covering all deployed personnel.”
Protects one party if the other party causes damage or loss that leads to legal claims.
Example: “The client agrees to indemnify the company for any claims arising from misuse of the services.”
If you’re thinking about hiring a security company, it’s important to understand some key terms in the contract. Knowing these can help you make sure your business is protected and that both you and the security company are on the same page. Here are a few important terms explained in simple language:
This term means that if something goes wrong, the security company might have to cover the costs. For example, if their guard makes a mistake and causes damage, they might be responsible for paying for it. It’s important to know what kinds of things the company agrees to cover. These damages may include property damages and any personal injury during the shift. This might be tricky though as it might put you responsible for things that might be out of your hands too.
If your business is listed as an additional insured, it means that the security company’s insurance also protects you. This can be really helpful if something happens, like a break-in or an accident, because it means their insurance will help cover the costs.
This is a complicated way of saying that the security company’s insurance won’t try to get money back from another party, like your business, after paying a claim. This protects you from being sued by their insurance if something goes wrong. In simple terms, it means that the insurer can take legal action against the third party. For example, a guard gets injured during the shift and decides to sue the client. Using this clause, the client can shift the liability back to you.
This is a special type of insurance that the security company might have to buy to protect you. It helps cover any legal problems that could come up because of something the security company did. However, this might mean extra costs, so make sure you understand if this is part of the contract. These are rarely used now in the contract, but if you see them in the security contract template, then you can replace them with an indemnity clause too.
The contract should clearly say what the security guards will be responsible for, where they will work, and for how long. This part makes sure that everyone knows exactly what is expected, so there are no surprises. It might be a fact, but it is always a good idea to have such sentences included. This will save you from any unnecessary legal action.
The contract should also make sure that all security guards have the right licenses and training. This ensures they are qualified to keep your business safe. And you are also aware of the type of services you will be receiving.
Understanding these terms helps you make sure that the security company you hire will protect your business the way you expect. Always take the time to read the contract carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if something isn’t clear.
A security guard contract is essential for several reasons:
Pro Tip: Consider consulting with a legal professional to ensure your security guard contract is comprehensive and legally sound.
Final Thoughts
Using a security guard contract isn’t just about legality — it’s about running your business professionally. It shows your clients that you care about structure, safety, and standards.
Whether you’re a solo security guard or running a team of 100, using a security contract template is a smart step. It saves you time, keeps you protected, and builds trust with your clients.
And if you’re tired of juggling schedules, contracts, and incident reports on paper, give Novagems a try.
We help security companies:
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