What insurance does a security guard need?
Not all professions face the same risks. Below is a breakdown of every coverage type relevant to security guards — what each one covers, whether it's required, and what you should expect to pay in 2026.
Security Guard LiabilityRequired
$80–$200/mo
Specialized coverage for security professionals. Covers excessive force claims, false arrest allegations, and failure to protect lawsuits.
Workers CompensationRequired
$100–$250/mo
Required for employees. Security work involves confrontational situations and physical injury risks.
Commercial AutoRequired
$80–$180/mo
Covers patrol vehicles during security operations.
Umbrella Liability
$25–$60/mo
Extra liability coverage above base limits — important given the serious nature of security-related claims.
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Top risks for security guards
- Excessive force allegation
- Failure to prevent theft or assault
- Employee injury on duty
- Vehicle accident during patrol
- False arrest or detention
How much does insurance cost?
Most security guards pay $150–$400/month for a complete coverage package. Your exact cost depends on your state, annual revenue, whether you have employees, your claims history, and the coverage limits you choose.
Frequently asked questions
What is excessive force liability for security guards?
Excessive force claims arise when a security guard uses more physical force than is legally justified in a situation. These claims can be very costly — specialized security liability insurance covers your defense.
Do I need insurance for armed vs unarmed security?
Armed security guards face significantly higher liability and typically require higher coverage limits. Some insurers specialize in armed security — ensure your policy specifically covers armed operations.
What if a crime occurs despite my security presence?
Failure to prevent claims allege that your negligent security allowed a crime to occur. These lawsuits are covered by security guard professional liability insurance.
How to get the best rate
The fastest way to find the lowest rate is to compare multiple carriers side by side. Most security guards can get quotes from 3–5 insurers in under 10 minutes and receive their certificate of insurance the same day.