🔐 What to Ask Before You Sign a Security Job Contract

David Eristavi
Jul 19
3 min read

Updated: Jul 20

(Avoid These Hidden Traps)

If you’ve recently completed your SIA training or are preparing to start your career in the security industry, getting that first job offer can feel like a major win. But before you sign anything, there are a few key questions you must ask or you could end up with less money, more stress, and no support on shift.

At SWBM Academy, we don’t just train you to pass an exam, we want to help you understand the industry and succeed long-term. So here’s a simple guide to help you protect yourself when reviewing a job offer or contract.

🧾 Six Essential Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Security Job

1️⃣ What’s my hourly rate and overtime pay?

This seems obvious, but don’t rely on the advertised rate

✅ Ask: “Is this the base rate, or does it vary by site or shift?”

✅ Also check: “Do I get paid extra for weekends, bank holidays, or overtime?”

Some companies promote £12–13/hour, but when you calculate the real average across sites and unpaid time, it could be much lower.

2️⃣ Are there any breaks, and how often?

Nothing is guaranteed in this industry, especially breaks. Ask: “Do I get a 30-minute break on a 12-hour shift?” In many places, breaks are unpaid or not given at all. Don’t assume anything.

3️⃣ Will I have access to my line manager at all times?

If something serious happens, you’ll want immediate support. Ask: “Will I have a direct number or channel to contact a supervisor at any time?” Also check if you’ll get support before, during, and after any incident (e.g. violence, theft, medical issue). You should never feel isolated or helpless during a shift.

4️⃣ What support is in place for lone working?

Working alone can be risky, especially in late night, retail, or event settings. Ask:

“Is there a check-in system?”
“What happens if I fall ill, get attacked, or need backup?”

If there’s no proper support system for lone workers, you may be taking on more risk than the job is worth.

5️⃣ What’s your training and uniform policy — is it free or deducted?

Some employers charge for company specific “training” or even deduct the cost of a uniform from your first few shifts.

✅ Ask: “Is the uniform free? Do I have to buy or rent it?”

✅ Also ask: “Are there any mandatory training costs I need to pay?”

These hidden deductions can eat into your earnings, especially on your first month.

6️⃣ Is holiday and sick pay included?

This depends heavily on whether you're employed directly (PAYE) or working through an agency or self-employed.

Ask directly:

“Do I get holiday pay?”
“What happens if I get sick and can’t work?”

Make sure you understand your rights before you commit to the role.

🚨 Real Pitfalls People Only Discover Too Late

A job advertised at £13/hour actually pays £10/hour after deductions
You're expected to work 12 hours without a proper break
You pay £75 for a uniform out of your first week’s wages
You work solo in high-risk areas with no backup
You’re told you’re “self-employed”, so no holiday, no sick pay, no protection.

These issues are far too common and they push many good people out of the industry altogether.

🛡️ How SWBM Academy Helps

While we don’t negotiate your job contract, we do prepare you to navigate the job market with confidence.

Our team helps you:

Understand what to expect in your first role
Spot red flags in job ads and interviews
Know what questions to ask before you commit
Learn what’s fair — and when to walk away

We train you for the job, but we also prepare you for the real world of security work.

Download Contract Readiness Checklist

🎯 Final Advice

Security is a serious job and you deserve a fair deal. Before you sign anything:

Ask the right questions
Get things in writing
Don’t rush into a job that could cost you more than it pays

And if you’re not sure? Ask us. We’re here to guide you, not just to the exam room, but through your first steps into the industry.

✅ Ready to start your journey with real support?

👉 Book your SIA training with SWBM Academy

We'll help you train smart, choose wisely, and work with confidence.

SWBMA