When it comes to protecting your business, property, or event, the security company you choose will determine your peace of mind. With so many providers across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), it can be difficult to know which one truly meets your needs.
The right company does more than place guards at a location—it provides proactive protection, skilled personnel, advanced technology, and transparent communication.
Akin Force, one of the most trusted names in Toronto’s security industry, understands the importance of making an informed choice. Before signing any contract, it’s critical to ask the right questions to evaluate professionalism, reliability, and service quality.
Here are seven essential questions to ask before hiring a security guard company—and why the answers matter.
1. Are Your Security Guards Licensed and Properly Trained?
This is the most important question to ask. In Ontario, all security guards must be licensed under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA). Licensing ensures guards have undergone approved training, passed background checks, and understand provincial laws governing their authority.
Akin Force only employs fully licensed and trained guards, all of whom complete government-approved programs and internal refresher courses. Beyond the basics, Akin Force emphasizes advanced training in:
- Conflict de-escalation
- Emergency response and evacuation procedures
- Customer service and communication
- Use-of-force and legal awareness
This commitment to continuous training guarantees that every guard represents both skill and professionalism on-site.
2. What Types of Security Services Do You Offer?
Security needs vary by industry and property type. A small retail shop, for example, requires a different level of protection than a large corporate office, residential complex, or construction site.
Before committing, ask about the company’s range of services to ensure they can adapt to your specific requirements.
Akin Force offers a full spectrum of security solutions, including:
- On-site uniformed guards
- Mobile patrol units
- Concierge and front-desk security
- Construction site protection
- Event and crowd control services
- VIP and executive protection
- Alarm response and 24/7 monitoring
Their flexibility means clients can scale coverage as needed—from temporary to permanent, or from small-scale to large-scale deployments.
3. How Do You Screen and Vet Your Security Personnel?
Security guards handle sensitive information, access restricted areas, and interact with the public daily. Ensuring that the company’s hiring process includes thorough background screening is essential to your safety and reputation.
Ask about:
- Criminal background checks
- Employment verification
- Reference checks
- Personality and psychological assessments
Akin Force enforces one of the strictest recruitment standards in the GTA, hiring only candidates who demonstrate integrity, reliability, and professionalism. Each guard undergoes a detailed vetting process, ensuring only trustworthy individuals represent the company and its clients.
4. What Technology Do You Use to Support Your Security Services?
Modern security depends on more than human presence—it relies on smart technology to improve monitoring, reporting, and communication.
Leading companies use tools like:
- GPS-based patrol verification
- CCTV monitoring and analytics
- Digital incident reporting systems
- Access control and alarm integration
- Real-time communication apps
Akin Force combines professional guards with cutting-edge technology. Clients receive transparent, real-time updates through secure reporting systems, enabling them to view patrol records, incident logs, and response timelines anytime.
This combination of human expertise and digital precision ensures accountability and efficiency.
5. How Do You Handle Emergencies and Incident Reporting?
Emergencies are the true test of a security company’s competence. Whether it’s a fire, medical emergency, theft, or disturbance, the company must have clear response protocols and communication procedures in place.
Before hiring, ask:
- How are incidents reported and documented?
- Are guards trained in first aid and CPR?
- How quickly do supervisors respond?
- How is information shared with property managers or law enforcement?
Akin Force’s guards are trained to remain calm under pressure and follow structured emergency response plans. Every incident is logged digitally and reviewed by supervisors to ensure proper follow-up and documentation.
6. Can You Provide Client References or Case Studies?
Reputation speaks volumes. Any reputable security company should be able to provide client testimonials or references from satisfied customers in similar industries.
This allows you to verify the company’s professionalism, reliability, and communication quality before entering into a contract.
Akin Force is proud of its proven track record across the Greater Toronto Area, protecting businesses, construction sites, and residential communities with exceptional service. Their consistent performance and client satisfaction reflect a strong commitment to quality.
7. What Are Your Pricing Structure and Contract Options?
Cost is an important consideration, but value should always outweigh price. Some companies may offer lower rates but compromise on training, supervision, or technology.
When discussing pricing, ask about:
- Hourly rates vs. flat fees
- Minimum contract durations
- Included vs. optional services
- Replacement or backup guard policies
Akin Force offers transparent, flexible pricing with no hidden fees. Whether you require temporary coverage for an event or long-term 24/7 protection, their team tailors contracts to your budget and operational needs.
Their client-first approach ensures you receive quality protection, not just a price point.
The Importance of Hiring Trained and Certified Security Guards
When hiring a security company in the GTA, one of the most critical factors to consider is the level of training and certification their guards possess. Skilled and properly certified guards don’t just deter threats—they respond effectively and professionally when incidents occur.
Akin Force places strong emphasis on employing guards who are fully licensed under Ontario’s Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA). Each team member undergoes rigorous background checks and completes recognized training programs before deployment.
Here are some essential certifications and skills that set professional security guards apart:
- Ontario Security Guard License – Every guard must complete ministry-approved training and testing to operate legally in Ontario.
- First Aid and CPR Certification – Guards trained in emergency medical response can provide immediate assistance during accidents or health crises until medical professionals arrive.
- Use of Force and Defensive Tactics Training – Ensures guards can manage confrontations safely and lawfully, minimizing risks to both people and property.
- WHMIS and Health & Safety Training – Equips guards with the knowledge to identify hazardous materials and maintain compliance with workplace safety regulations.
- Fire Safety and Evacuation Training – Guards trained in emergency procedures can coordinate building evacuations efficiently during fires or other emergencies.
- Crisis Management and De-escalation Techniques – These soft skills allow guards to defuse potentially volatile situations without resorting to physical force.
- Customer Service and Communication Skills – Particularly vital for concierge or front-desk security, where guards interact daily with employees, clients, and visitors.
Akin Force also conducts regular refresher training and scenario-based exercises to ensure guards remain updated on evolving threats and security technologies. This continuous development approach helps businesses maintain compliance, reduce liability, and ensure that all personnel on-site are capable of responding to any security challenge.
When choosing a security firm in the GTA, always ask about their guards’ qualifications, ongoing training programs, and industry certifications. A reputable provider like Akin Force not only supplies licensed professionals but ensures they’re equipped with both the technical and interpersonal skills needed to protect your assets and people effectively.
What Sets Akin Force Apart in the GTA Security Industry
Choosing a security partner is about trust, transparency, and consistency. Akin Force stands out because of its:
- Fully licensed, professionally trained guards
- Quick deployment and 24/7 supervision
- Integration of advanced security technology
- Flexible temporary and permanent service options
- Personalized service tailored to each client’s risk profile
Whether protecting construction sites, corporate offices, or residential towers, Akin Force combines human vigilance with smart systems to keep people and property safe.
How to Evaluate a Security Company’s Credibility
When comparing providers, look for signs of credibility such as:
- Provincial licensing and insurance coverage
- Long-standing service history
- Positive client testimonials
- Professional uniforms and conduct
- Transparent communication and reporting systems
Akin Force checks all these boxes—and more. Their consistent performance and local expertise make them one of the most trusted names in Toronto’s private security industry.
Conclusion
Hiring a security company in the GTA is a serious decision that directly affects your safety, reputation, and operations. By asking the seven questions above, you can filter out unreliable providers and choose a team that truly aligns with your goals.
The best security companies—like Akin Force—offer licensed guards, strong technology support, transparent communication, and customized service. They don’t just guard property; they protect peace of mind.
Whether you need on-site guards, mobile patrols, event security, or investigative support, Akin Force delivers dependable, professional, and adaptable protection across the Greater Toronto Area.
Make the right choice—partner with a company that values integrity, responsiveness, and excellence in every shift.
FAQs
- Why is licensing important for security guards in Ontario?
Licensing ensures guards meet provincial standards, complete training, and operate legally under PSISA. - What should I ask before hiring a security company?
Ask about licensing, training, experience, technology, and client references. - Are security guards legal in Toronto?
Yes, security guards are fully legal and must be licensed under Ontario’s Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA). Akin Force ensures all guards meet provincial standards before deployment. - What do security guards do for businesses?
Security guards protect people, property, and assets by monitoring premises, responding to incidents, enforcing safety protocols, and maintaining a visible presence to deter theft or vandalism. - How do security guards work with clients?
Guards collaborate closely with business owners and property managers to identify security risks, enforce site rules, monitor surveillance systems, and coordinate with law enforcement when necessary. - Are security guards trained like police officers?
While they are not police officers, professional security guards receive extensive training in first aid, emergency response, conflict de-escalation, and legal compliance to ensure they can respond effectively in any situation. - How much do security services cost in the GTA?
Costs depend on service duration, site risk, and technology integration—Akin Force offers flexible plans. - What makes Akin Force different from other companies?
Their licensed guards, advanced technology, and commitment to personalized service set them apart. - How quickly can Akin Force deploy guards?
They provide rapid response and can often deploy trained guards within hours in the GTA. - Why is communication important in security services?
Clear communication ensures accountability, timely incident reporting, and effective coordination during emergencies.