In today’s rapidly evolving security environment across North America, the demand for private security has surged. As a result, many ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) families are now asking, “Do we need a Residential Security Team?”
A Residential Security Team (RST) is frequently engaged to ensure that on-site technical security systems are effectively maintained, monitored, and managed. While many homeowners are use a third party (off-site) alarm and CCTV monitoring company, others prefer the added reassurance of having a professional security team present within their residence.
While the benefits of a Residential Security Team (RST) may not be immediately obvious, careful consideration reveals its value. Although not the most economical option, an RST can be a wise investment when weighed against the safety of your family and the risks of home invasion, kidnapping, or the loss of high-value and irreplaceable assets—such as fine art, luxury vehicles, or jewelry. Moreover, it is a measure often highly valued by insurance underwriters.
Residential security is a critical responsibility often assigned to a team of Close Protection Agents. A principal’s movements are never more predictable than when they are at home, particularly when relaxed or sleeping, making the security of the residence a top priority. However, this role can present numerous complexities and vulnerabilities, especially if the security infrastructure is not fully integrated. Even the most advanced technical measures—such as alarm and CCTV systems—are rendered ineffective if they are not actively monitored or properly understood by those on-site.
A Residential Security Team (RST) can consist of a single security agent or multiple personnel, depending on the size of the property, the surrounding grounds, and the level of concern felt by the residents. Many homes, particularly those with listed building restrictions, may be unable to implement robust security measures, such as reinforced windows or doors. In such instances, having a security presence within the home provides significant reassurance to the family.
The responsibilities you can delegate to your security team are extensive and often unexpected. Below are real examples of both the more obvious and lesser-known roles that have proven essential to homeowners.
- CCTV monitoring and alarm response are fundamental responsibilities of a Residential Security Team (RST). It is expected that a security professional will assess the cause of an alarm and determine whether it presents a genuine threat. Often, alarms are triggered by false alerts, yet the lights and sirens continue regardless—someone must reset the system. Do you know the code? What if it’s the fire alarm that has been activated? Do you know the appropriate steps to ensure there is no fire in the home? In a large residence, where would you even begin? Waking from sleep to the sound of alarms can be disorienting and terrifying. An RST maintains a vigilant 24/7 presence and will have these issues resolved before you’re even out of bed.
- In the event of a genuine trespasser, the RST will have detected the threat at the earliest possible stage, notifying law enforcement within minutes. This allows for the suspect’s apprehension before they have a chance to approach the residence. Simultaneously, the team secures the family in a safe location, monitors the intruder’s movements, and, if necessary, intervenes to prevent or detain the individual.
- In a large residence, managing routine operations often involves controlling access for guests, deliveries, and contractors—a task that can easily become a full-time responsibility. This is in addition to overseeing the receipt of mail and parcels, as well as maintaining detailed logs of household staff entering and leaving the premises. At any given time, a residence may have more than 20 individuals on-site, all of whom must be accounted for in the event of an emergency. A proactive and professional security team ensures these operations run smoothly while identifying and mitigating risks in real time.
- During extended periods when the owners are away on vacation or business, the Residential Security Team may be the only individuals regularly entering and exiting the home. As a result, routine maintenance tasks become the responsibility of the RST. Duties such as watering plants, feeding pets, and general household upkeep are gladly assumed by the team. Their routine patrols not only serve to maintain security but also to identify potential issues, such as water leaks that could damage valuable art, and to maintain a visible presence that deters criminal activity.