In today’s fast-paced world, protecting our homes and families is more important than ever. Especially in a large and busy city like London, security threats can come in many forms—from burglaries and break-ins to vandalism and antisocial behaviour. To ensure safety, homeowners are now turning to professional residential security London to keep their properties secure.
But when it comes to choosing the right security setup, many people face a common question: Should I hire manned security guards or rely on modern technology solutions like alarms and cameras? This article will break down both options, highlight their strengths and weaknesses, and help you decide what’s best for your home.
London is a city full of life, culture, and opportunity. But with its size and population, it also brings a fair share of risks. Crime can happen anywhere—from quiet suburban streets to high-end neighbourhoods. Common residential security concerns in London include:
Burglaries and home invasions
Car theft from driveways or garages
Vandalism and graffiti
Trespassing and squatting
Anti-social behaviour near private homes
Having strong residential security in place doesn’t just protect your property—it gives you peace of mind, knowing your family and belongings are safe.
When it comes to securing your home, there are two primary paths:
Manned Security Guards: Trained professionals stationed at your property to monitor, protect, and respond to incidents.
Technology-Based Solutions: Tools such as CCTV cameras, motion detectors, smart locks, alarms, and mobile monitoring apps.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of each.
Manned guards are professional security officers who physically patrol or monitor your property. They may be stationed at a gate, walk around your home, or even stay in a security room within the house.
✅ Real-time Response
Unlike machines, security guards can respond to threats instantly. If someone tries to break in, a guard can take immediate action—whether it’s stopping the person, alerting police, or securing your home.
✅ Visual Deterrence
Criminals are much less likely to target a home if they see a uniformed guard present. It sends a clear message that the property is protected.
✅ Human Judgment
Guards can assess situations better than machines. For example, they can tell if someone near your home is genuinely lost or behaving suspiciously.
✅ Help for Residents
Security guards can assist elderly family members, help with deliveries, and manage guest access—all while keeping your home secure.
❌ Higher Costs
Hiring a full-time security guard, especially in London, can be expensive. Shifts, overtime, and licensing fees can add up.
❌ Limited Coverage
A guard can only be in one place at a time. While they can patrol regularly, they can’t cover every angle of your property every second.
These are devices designed to monitor, detect, and alert. Examples include:
CCTV cameras
Smart doorbells (like Ring)
Alarm systems
Motion sensors
Smart locks and access controls
Home automation apps for mobile control
✅ 24/7 Monitoring
Cameras and sensors can be always active, even while you’re asleep or away from home. Some systems even alert you instantly via your phone.
✅ Remote Access
You can check on your property from anywhere in the world with just a smartphone. This is great if you travel or spend time away from home.
✅ Evidence Collection
Recorded footage can help identify suspects and provide evidence in case of crime.
✅ Cost-Effective
After the initial investment, tech solutions are often more affordable than hiring guards.
❌ No Physical Intervention
A camera can record someone breaking in—but it can’t stop them. This means the threat can continue until police arrive.
❌ False Alarms
Technology can misfire—motion detectors may be triggered by animals or heavy wind, causing unnecessary alerts or panic.
❌ Maintenance and Updates
Tech requires regular updates and maintenance. Systems can fail if not properly looked after.
In recent years, more homeowners in London are choosing a hybrid security solution—combining both manned guards and technology for the best of both worlds.
This setup might include:
A security guard on-site during the night or at key hours
24/7 CCTV monitoring connected to the guard or a control room
Alarms and motion sensors around the perimeter
Smart locks for controlled access
Video intercoms to screen visitors
This combination increases the chances of catching threats early, responding in real-time, and collecting evidence for future use.
Best Option: Manned guards with integrated CCTV.
Why? These homes are often targets due to their luxury status. Manned guards add a strong layer of protection, while technology ensures no area is missed.
Best Option: Smart home security system with part-time patrols.
Why? For families on a budget, smart alarms and cameras offer good protection, with optional evening or weekend patrols for added safety.
Best Option: Shared manned guards at entrance + individual CCTV.
Why? Shared costs allow for round-the-clock human monitoring, while homeowners add tech features for private areas.
If you decide to go with manned guards, tech, or both, it’s important to work with a trusted company. Here’s what to check:
SIA Licensing: Guards must be certified and trained under the Security Industry Authority in the UK.
Experience: Choose companies that have proven experience in residential security in London.
Custom Plans: Your home is unique. Look for services that offer custom security plans, not one-size-fits-all.
Fast Response: Make sure the company has fast emergency procedures in place.
Technology Integration: The best companies can link human guards with tech systems for seamless protection.
Companies like Hunter Group specialize in residential security services in London. They offer trained guards, advanced surveillance options, and personalized protection plans for homeowners.
Full-time (24/7): £40,000–£60,000/year
Part-time: £15–£25/hour
Event-based or night-only coverage: £100–£300/night
Basic smart security kit: £300–£800 (one-time)
Full CCTV system with installation: £1,000–£5,000
Monthly monitoring (optional): £10–£50/month
Remember: the cost of not having protection can be much higher in the event of theft or property damage.
Assess Your Risk Level: Are you in a high-crime area? Do you have valuables to protect? Are you home often or away a lot?
Set a Budget: Understand what you can afford monthly or annually.
Start Small: If unsure, begin with basic tech and scale up as needed.
Think Long-Term: Security is a long-term investment. Don’t compromise safety for short-term savings.
Get Professional Advice: Talk to residential security experts like Hunter Group for a free consultation.
Residential security in London is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every home, every family, and every street is different. What works for one person may not work for another.
Manned guards offer unmatched physical presence and real-time action.
Technology offers 24/7 monitoring, convenience, and affordability.
Together, they create the ultimate line of defence for modern homes.
So, whether you’re protecting your family, valuable assets, or simply looking for peace of mind, make sure your security solution is tailored to your specific needs. In a world where threats are unpredictable, the best defence is always being one step ahead.
