Security Audits for Commercial Properties. Why Bother?

If your commercial property hasn’t been targeted by criminals recently, you might wonder why a security audit is necessary. Everything seems to be working just fine.

The problem is, a lack of break-ins doesn’t mean the building is secure. The systems just haven’t been put to the test yet.

In this article, we’re looking at what a security audit involves, and why they’re so important for commercial properties.

Why is a security audit important?

A security audit is a thorough, professional assessment of the risks faced by your business. It pinpoints weaknesses which you may not have noticed. If left unattended, these unseen vulnerabilities could be an open invitation to criminals.

An audit is therefore the crucial difference between taking a risk and protecting yourself against it. Here are a few more reasons why regular security audits are important:

They save you money. When you understand the specific threats to a property, resources can be channelled towards mitigating the risk. It avoids wasting money on security systems you don’t need.
Tailored recommendations. Every business, building and industry has its own security risks and requirements. A tailored audit identifies the specific security systems which will work for you.
Future proofing. Security doesn’t stand still. As the business landscape evolves, new security threats develop alongside it. Regular audits are a forward-thinking approach to security. They protect your business against future risks.

What exactly is a security audit?

A security audit is more than a quick check of the business premises. It’s a comprehensive, objective appraisal of every aspect of a building’s security. A risk assessment provides an opportunity to pinpoint current weak spots, uncover future vulnerabilities, then make informed decisions about the best way to close the security gaps.

Preventing crime is one thing — but if a security breach takes place, what’s the response? Audits will test incident response speed and efficiency to see if improvements can be made.

A security risk audit is proactive. Firstly, you can take the necessary steps to prevent losses before they happen. Secondly, if an incident does occur, a clear plan of action allows a swift response. There’s a greater chance of managing the situation before it escalates.

Identifying the risks

A professional security audit will identify the potential risks to your premises by looking at the following:

Access points. How easy is it for an intruder to enter the building undetected? Working inwards from the perimeter of the property through to its doors and windows, every access point will be thoroughly scrutinised.
Locking systems. Are they in good condition — strong enough to withstand forced entry? And, is a lock and key system the most effective security solution for specific access points?
Access control systems are evaluated for effectiveness. Is the system functioning as intended? In some instances, auditors may recommend more robust measures — for example, switching from lock and key to a PIN keypad or biometric control system.
CCTV systems will be tested for faults. If any cameras are obstructed, or facing in the wrong direction, the auditors will pick this up and provide advice. The audit also ensures that you’re complying with the strict privacy laws surrounding the placement of CCTV cameras.
Intruder alarms and motion detectors can start issuing multiple false alarms, or even stop functioning altogether if left unattended. These systems will be thoroughly checked and wherever necessary, maintenance can be carried out.
Lighting. Trespassers love the darkness. Do the unlit areas of the property present a target for criminals?
Security protocols, procedures and practices. An audit assesses staff knowledge of security procedures, plus their familiarity with the systems. If security staff are employed onsite, it’s an opportunity to make sure they’re being deployed as effectively as possible.

The overall benefits of a security audit

A professional security audit is a cost-saving measure. It not only leads to greater protection of property, assets and staff, it can also save you money on insurance premiums. A building with robust security measures presents a lower risk profile — and an audit helps demonstrate these measures to insurers.

Once the audit’s recommendations have been implemented, your property will be considerably less attractive to criminals. Measures such as visible cameras, alarms, bright lights and strong perimeter barriers act as a powerful deterrent to would-be intruders.

Ultimately, a tailored security audit helps you make informed, cost-effective decisions. Rather than paying for measures you don’t need, you can upgrade security only where it’s required.

To find out how a security audit can save you money while strengthening security, get in touch with the CSG team.