How to Become a Home Security Contractor

Home security contractors need to go through a number of necessary steps.

Home security is a big field, and there are always homeowners looking to make their investments a little more secure. Most home security contractors perform security services as self-employed business owners. Unlike regular employees you aren't subject to a lot of protection or benefits as a contractor, but you are your own boss, and you work on a contracted basis. Becoming a home security contractor takes some work, but if it's your passion then it's worth it.

Instructions

1. Become certified as a home security expert or security system installer. Seek out a professional certification organization, such as the Alarm Association of Florida for those in that state. Your certification can be through a state organization or through a professional security association. You'll need to pay a fee and pass a test consisting of a written portion and a hands-on portion for troubleshooting and installation. Certification helps your business when you have the necessary paperwork that says you're qualified to do your job. Being certified in your field makes you more credible.

2. Get a business license. This requires a business plan and a place of business. Your business will need to get inspected by the local licensing board (and possibly by state inspectors depending on your state laws) before your license can be approved. Pay all necessary licensing fees to your local licensing board in addition to state or federal fees. In some states, like Massachusetts, you may qualify as a security company and have to pay an additional fee.

3. Draw up contracts for your services. As a freelance home security expert, you should have contracts on hand for the different jobs you can perform. Make sure you have legally binding contracts that will hold up in case of involvement by authorities in civil or criminal investigations.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that you have some experience in home security before you become a contractor. Clients will want to know how long you've been in the business, and no one wants to be your test installation. Working with private security companies that offer home security is a good place to get some experience under your belt.

References

• Business: How to Become an Independent Contractor
• Global Security: Mercenary and Private Military Contractor
• Alarm Association of Florida: Contractor Licensing