Verifying Security Professionals – Document Checks, Criminal Records, References & Independent Validation

It is essential to thoroughly verify any security professional, contractor, or company before engaging their services. Choosing the right security personnel is a serious decision, whether for private hire, site protection, public safety events, or executive protection. It is your responsibility to ensure that the individual or company you contract has the right credentials, legal eligibility, and trustworthy track record to deliver their duties safely and professionally.

Key Checks to Carry Out

We strongly recommend creating a checklist for verifying documents and conducting interviews. Below are the key areas to assess before entering into any contract or assignment agreement.

SIA Licence & Insurance

All frontline security professionals in the UK must hold a valid Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence appropriate to their role (e.g., Door Supervisor, Close Protection, CCTV Operator). This can be verified on the official SIA Register.

In addition, self-employed professionals and private security companies must hold up-to-date public liability insurance. Always request proof of this insurance before contracting a service.

Criminal Record Checks (DBS) and Vetting

Before hiring, request to see a valid Enhanced DBS check, which reveals spent and unspent convictions, cautions, warnings, and whether the individual is barred from working with vulnerable groups. Many employers also conduct background checks via the BS 7858:2019 standard, which includes:

Identity verification
Five-year employment history review
Character references
Address verification
Right to Work checks

For contractors who have served in the Armed Forces or government security roles, military references or security clearance levels (e.g., SC, DV) may also be available and relevant.

Note: A DBS certificate is only accurate as of the day it was issued. The DBS Update Service allows real-time checks for changes, ask if the candidate is subscribed.

ID Verification & Right to Work

Always check two forms of ID, one photographic (passport, driving licence) and one showing proof of address (utility bill, bank statement). You must also verify their legal right to work in the UK. Guidance is available from GOV.UK – Right to Work Checks.

Training & Qualifications

Security professionals should be able to present SIA-linked qualification certificates (e.g., Door Supervision, CCTV, First Aid). For specialist roles, check for qualifications such as:

Close Protection Level 3
CCTV Operation Level 2
Spectator Safety or Event Security NVQs
Physical Intervention or Conflict Management certifications

Additional training such as First Aid at Work, Fire Safety, or Mental Health First Aid is recommended and often expected for event-based or lone working roles.

Vehicle Documents (If Driving Is Involved)

If a professional will be transporting assets or individuals, check that their vehicle documentation is valid and includes:

Business class vehicle insurance
Valid MOT
Vehicle tax status
Driving licence check
Roadside assistance cover

Also check if the vehicle is appropriate and if security modifications (dash cams, lockboxes, etc.) are present where applicable.

References and Previous Employment

Request references from past clients or employers within the security industry. A reliable security professional should be able to supply verifiable feedback from their most recent assignments or employers, ideally covering the last 5 years.

Note on Document Verification on FindMySecurity

FindMySecurity allows security professionals to upload documentation such as SIA licences, insurance, DBS checks, and qualifications to their profile. These are digitally watermarked and stored securely but not automatically verified by FindMySecurity unless explicitly stated.

As a hiring business or individual, it is your duty to verify these documents directly, request originals during interviews, and follow up on references as part of your due diligence.

Face-to-Face Interviews

We strongly advise that all businesses and individuals conduct a face-to-face interview with any security professional before engaging their services. For initial meetings, consider arranging to meet in a public and neutral setting such as a coffee shop, reception area, or office space.

During the interview, you should ask detailed questions about the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and background. Always request to see original copies of key documents, such as:

SIA Licence
Enhanced DBS Certificate
Public Liability Insurance
Relevant training certificates (e.g., First Aid, Conflict Management, Close Protection)
Proof of identity and eligibility to work in the UK

It is also advisable to take notes and retain copies of documentation where appropriate.

References

It is essential to obtain reliable references for any prospective security professional or company. Reputable personnel should be able to supply professional references from previous clients, contracts, or employers. Where a candidate is newly qualified or self-employed, you may consider accepting character references or academic references.

We recommend contacting referees directly by phone rather than relying solely on written testimonials or emails.

Professional Reviews on FindMySecurity

Verified businesses and individuals who have used a security professional through FindMySecurity are encouraged to leave public reviews. These reviews are visible on the professional’s profile and can be a helpful indicator of quality, conduct, and reliability.

If a professional has been listed for a significant period but has no reviews, it may be worth discussing this with them during the vetting process.

Where available, you may also contact reviewers directly through our platform to request further feedback or verification.

Supporting Documentation

Security professionals committed to excellence will usually provide supporting documentation such as:

Training logs and completion certificates (e.g., SIA-linked qualifications, First Aid, Fire Safety)
Company policies and operating procedures (for private firms)
Employment contracts, licences, or accreditations (e.g., ISO certification, NSI/ACS membership)

This documentation helps to evidence the professionalism, capability, and commitment of the provider. Ensure any contractual forms are reviewed thoroughly before signing.

Additional Online Research

As part of your due diligence, consider carrying out your own online research. Public social media profiles (e.g., LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or X) may provide insight into a candidate's professionalism, communication style, and public persona.

Ask yourself:

Do they behave professionally online?
Are they discreet about client information or assignments?
Do their activities align with your organisation’s values or risk tolerance?

You may also search for any public disciplinary or criminal records, previous company directorships, or mentions in trade forums.

This approach complements formal verification steps and can help build a well-rounded picture of the person or business you're considering.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and Training

Security professionals should undertake regular CPD to stay informed of current legislation, risk practices, and industry trends. Common CPD topics include:

Use of force and restraint
Conflict resolution
Terror threat awareness
GDPR & data handling
Emergency response protocols

Ask candidates to provide proof of any CPD training or webinar participation.

FindMySecurity offers resources, courses, and live webinars for professionals to build their knowledge and enhance employability.

More Advice on Staying Safe

For further guidance, please visit our Safety Centre , which contains essential tips on staying safe while using our platform. Or contact us for any further guidance at info@findmysecurity.co.uk.