When most people think of security guards, they picture armed officers with holsters and stern expressions. But the reality is that unarmed security guards handle the vast majority of security work across South Florida, and they do it effectively without carrying firearms.
Whether you manage a condominium in Brickell, oversee a retail center in Fort Lauderdale, or run a construction project in Doral, understanding what unarmed security guards actually do can help you make smarter decisions about protecting your property.
Core Responsibilities of Unarmed Security Guards
Unarmed security guards serve as the first line of defense for properties throughout Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Their responsibilities extend far beyond simply standing at a post.
Access Control and Visitor Management
One of the most important functions unarmed guards perform is controlling who enters and exits a property. This includes verifying visitor identification, maintaining sign-in logs, issuing temporary badges, and ensuring only authorized individuals gain access. For HOAs and condominiums, this means checking residents against approved lists and screening guests, delivery drivers, and contractors.
Patrol and Surveillance
Regular patrols are essential for maintaining security. Unarmed guards conduct scheduled and random patrols throughout a property, checking doors and windows, monitoring parking areas, inspecting stairwells and common areas, and looking for signs of suspicious activity. These visible patrols serve as a powerful deterrent against crime.
Incident Response and Documentation
When incidents occur, unarmed security guards are trained to respond appropriately. This includes de-escalating confrontations, contacting emergency services when necessary, securing incident scenes, and documenting everything that happened. Detailed incident reports protect property owners from liability and provide evidence if legal action becomes necessary.
Customer Service
Modern security guards do much more than enforce rules. They greet residents and visitors, provide directions, assist with packages, help elderly or disabled individuals, and create a welcoming atmosphere while maintaining safety. This customer-service approach is particularly important in hospitality and residential settings.
Where Unarmed Security Guards Work
Unarmed security is the preferred choice for most commercial and residential properties in South Florida. Common environments include residential communities such as condominiums, HOAs, gated communities, and apartment complexes. Commercial properties like office buildings, shopping centers, and warehouses also rely heavily on unarmed guards. Additionally, construction sites, hotels and resorts, schools and universities, healthcare facilities, and special events all benefit from professional unarmed security.
Why Choose Unarmed Over Armed Security?
Many property managers wonder whether they need armed or unarmed guards. For most situations in South Florida, unarmed security offers distinct advantages.
First, unarmed guards present a lower liability risk. Firearms introduce significant legal and safety considerations that most properties simply do not need. Second, unarmed officers tend to be more approachable, which is essential in residential and hospitality settings where guest comfort matters. Third, unarmed security is typically more cost-effective, allowing you to maintain coverage for longer hours or across more locations. Finally, unarmed guards can focus on de-escalation and conflict resolution rather than confrontation.
💡 Pro Tip: Armed security is typically only necessary for high-risk environments like banks, jewelry stores, or properties handling large amounts of cash. For condos, retail, construction, and events, unarmed guards provide effective protection.
Training and Qualifications
Professional unarmed security guards in Florida must complete state-mandated training and hold a valid Class D Security License. At Truman Security, our guards receive additional training in de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution, emergency response procedures, customer service and communication, report writing and documentation, property-specific protocols, and cultural awareness for South Florida’s diverse communities.
The Truman Security Difference
Not all security companies are the same. Truman Security provides unarmed guards who are locally trained and supervised, available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, equipped with real-time reporting technology, experienced in Miami-Dade and Broward properties, and focused on both security and customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do unarmed security guards have any authority?
Yes. Unarmed guards can observe and report suspicious activity, ask individuals to leave private property, detain individuals in certain circumstances until police arrive, and enforce property rules and regulations.
Can unarmed guards handle dangerous situations?
Unarmed guards are trained in de-escalation and conflict resolution. For genuinely dangerous situations, they contact law enforcement immediately while securing the area and protecting people.
How much does unarmed security cost in Miami?
Rates vary based on hours needed, location, and specific requirements. Contact Truman Security for a customized quote based on your property’s needs.
Need Professional Security for Your Property?
Truman Security provides licensed, insured security guards throughout Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
📞 Call (786) 607-8866 or Request a Free Quote at trumansecurity.com
