Security companies send quotes when a client asks for coverage at a site, such as a new construction project, retail location, event, or building needing after-hours patrol. Clients usually compare hourly bill rates, how many guards are required, insurance coverage, and what is included. A clear quote shows how you arrived at the number so it is not compared on rate alone.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
Upload logo
PDF will be generated with filename:
Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Cost depends mainly on coverage hours, so the post schedule must be exact. Changes after signing should be priced as additions.
Armed or specialized staff cost more, and clients should know what they are paying for.
Whether guards patrol, check IDs, log visitors, or only observe affects staffing and liability. Anything outside the listed duties should be charged separately.
Putting premium rates in the quote prevents billing disputes when extra hours occur.
Clients often require proof of general liability, workers' compensation, and a state license before signing.
Cancellation terms protect your payroll commitments, and rate review language lets you adjust for wage increases.
Radios, vehicles, patrol tracking, and report delivery should be listed as included or as extra line items.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Unarmed security guard (static post) | per hour | $25-45 |
| Armed security guard | per hour | $40-75 |
| Event or crowd management guard | per hour (4-hour minimum) | $30-55 |
| Mobile patrol | per patrol visit | $20-50 |
| Supervisor or site lead | per hour | $35-65 |
| Alarm response (non-monitored client) | per call | $50-125 |
| Fire watch | per hour | $30-50 |
| Executive or personal protection | per hour | $60-150 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Build the price by role, with guard, supervisor, and patrol vehicle costs separate, then you can combine them if the client wants one rate. This makes it easier to adjust if the scope changes.
A 24/7 post needs more than three 8-hour guards because of days off, sick time, and training. Include relief coverage so your margin holds on weeks with call-outs.
A walk-through shows the number of entry points, lighting, parking, and hazards, which affect staffing and patrol time. Note findings on the quote to justify your recommendations.
Present two or three options, such as a single guard, a guard plus mobile patrol, or patrol only. Clients can compare real tradeoffs instead of only the lowest hourly rate.
Many firms provide a basic walk-through free for contracts they expect to win. For detailed risk assessments or written security plans, a flat fee of a few hundred dollars or more is common, and some firms credit it toward the contract.
Fifteen to 30 days is typical. Wages and insurance costs change, and guard availability can shift, so an expiration date keeps you from being held to old pricing.
Reduce the scope before the rate, for example fewer hours, fewer patrols, or a longer contract term in exchange for a modest discount. Dropping the rate below your labor cost and overhead usually leads to losing money on the contract.
A quote can be accepted by signature, but most security companies also use a separate service agreement with liability, insurance, and termination terms. Have an attorney review your contract template, since requirements vary by state.
Use the Security Service invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Security Service invoice template