Whether security companies must register with the SIA
Published 6 February 2025
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Request
I am writing to you as the director of a company that provides security services in the UK. I am currently in the process of applying for a sponsorship licence for my company. As part of the application process, I have been asked to provide proof of registration with the relevant regulatory body (Security Industry Authority).
I would like to confirm whether it is mandatory for a security company of our scale and the services we provide to be registered with a regulatory body, such as the Security Industry Authority (SIA), in order to operate lawfully in the UK.
As per my understanding, under the Private Security Industry Act 2001, individuals or businesses involved in specific licensable activities, such as manned guarding, CCTV operation, and other security services, must adhere to the regulatory requirements set forth by the SIA. However, I would appreciate your insight to confirm whether this applies to all security companies, regardless of their size or specific operational focus.
Response
The SIA does hold this information.
The SIA does not offer registration. There is no requirement for security companies in the UK to register with the SIA. The SIA is the regulator of the private security industry. We license individuals and not businesses. Our purpose is to protect the public and monitor the activities and effectiveness of people who undertake operations to provide security industry services. We also set and approve standards of conduct and training.
Security companies may wish to join our Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS). It is a voluntary, quality assurance program aimed to promote standards of security in the industry. Read more about the ACS.
It is correct that individuals and companies who provide private security industry services must adhere to the regulatory requirements set by the SIA.
[Ref: FOI 0540]