Choose fixed unarmed or armed coverage
Use the unarmed guard guide for access, reception, patrol and reporting duties that do not require an armed post. Use the armed guard guide when a documented risk decision supports armed coverage and the buyer is prepared to verify the provider, individual guard and firearm authority.
California licensing is statewide. Use the DCA license search for the company record. The same basic PPO and guard-registration checks apply across Los Angeles, but the assignment still has to fit the specific property.
Choose patrol or authority-directed fire watch
Use mobile patrol for scheduled or varied visits, lock checks and documented rounds when a fixed post is not required. Use fire watch only around the direction of the responsible fire authority and impairment plan. California Fire Code section 901.7 puts the trigger and release with the fire code official, not a generic patrol provider.
Build the brief around the property type
Construction sites need gate, delivery, equipment and after-hours rules. Apartment buildings need resident, guest, package, parking and management-reporting instructions. Warehouses and logistics sites need gatehouse, trailer, seal, yard and shift-change controls.
Los Angeles industrial land, the Port’s terminals and rail network, and Downtown’s varied reused buildings make these property distinctions practical rather than cosmetic.
Connect scope, credentials and price
After choosing the service model, complete the post-orders checklist, review PPO and insurance checks, model hours in the cost guide and use the company worksheet. Get a Quote when the assignment can be described in one clear brief.
Frequently asked questions
Which security service should I start with?
Start with the duty. Continuous access or observation usually points to a fixed post; periodic checks may point to patrol; an authority-directed system impairment may require a specific fire-watch plan.
Can one assignment combine services?
Yes. A site can use fixed posts during open hours and patrol after closing, but each part needs its own schedule, duties, reporting and price.
Are these provider packages?
No. These are independent buyer guides used to define and compare a commercial assignment.