An electronic security system is necessary to protect your premises and the people within it, but it’s not something that you see as adding value to your business.  As a result, once you’ve paid for it you mostly forget about it, which tends to mean it gets neglected and out of date.

But what if you could have up to date security technology without the risks of ownership and without an upfront cost?  

Security companies, such as ourselves through our Stanley Assure scheme, are now offering modern security systems on a rental basis. Here’s how it works: the security company buys back your existing equipment at its residual or market value and takes over that security system (regardless of whether they supplied it or not); they upgrade it to an agreed value to ensure it meets your needs and incorporates the latest security technology; then they hire it back to you on evenly spread, manageable payment terms. It provides an affordable means of upgrading a complete security system and removes the need to justify and raise significant capital outlay in a depreciating asset. It’s also good for cash flow as you know exactly what you’re paying each month.

Points to consider

When looking for a security system rental provider, there are some key aspects that should be considered.

•  Do they provide tailored solutions? All manufacturing premises are different, so the security company needs to take the time to understand your security ‘pain points’ and design a system to meet your needs. A good security company will also be able to identify areas that need strengthening and should be able to work around your daily activities with minimal disruption. They should be proficient in the full range of security systems, including intrusion detection, access control and video surveillance, plus fire detection. One thing all contracts should come with is an equipment warranty covering the full term of the agreement.  

•  What level of ongoing support can you expect? Regular maintenance and servicing are important so check what options are available. You may want to consider including the maintenance/service into the system rental programme, with annual, quarterly or monthly payments. Check what level of response you can expect if something goes wrong with the system; how quickly can they respond?

•  Finance options are an important consideration in choice of supplier. Avoid third party finance if you can and instead look for a company that offers in-house finance solutions so it can be structured to suit your specific requirements. For example, you may want to mix and match what you pay for within those terms and be able to adjust the terms as your own business circumstances change. Stanley Assure – Stanley Security’s rental finance solution – is financed entirely in house.

www.stanleysecurity.ie