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Armed and Unarmed Security Guard Insurance
Armed vs. Unarmed Security Guard Insurance
Security guard insurance requirements and risks can vary significantly depending on whether guards are armed or unarmed. Businesses providing armed security services typically face higher liability exposure, stricter underwriting requirements, and increased insurance costs compared to unarmed operations.
Understanding these differences is critical when building a complete security guard insurance program.
Request a quote or explore how coverage differs below.
Key Differences Between Armed and Unarmed Security
- Armed Security Guards – carry firearms and operate in higher-risk environments such as banks, armored transport, and high-value asset protection
- Unarmed Security Guards – focus on observation, reporting, access control, and deterrence in lower-risk settings
Because of the increased potential for severe claims, armed security operations are subject to stricter insurance requirements.
Insurance Implications for Armed Security
- Higher general liability limits are often required
- Professional liability coverage becomes more critical
- Stricter underwriting of training, licensing, and procedures
- Higher premiums due to increased severity risk
- More detailed carrier review of use-of-force policies
Insurers will often evaluate firearms training, certifications, supervision, and incident protocols before offering coverage.
Insurance Implications for Unarmed Security
- Lower overall premiums compared to armed operations
- Still requires liability protection for third-party claims
- Common exposures include slips, falls, and failure-to-act claims
- Often easier to place with standard or specialty markets
Even without weapons, unarmed guards still face meaningful liability exposure, especially in public-facing roles.
Core Coverages for Both
Whether armed or unarmed, most security firms require a combination of coverages:
To see how these coverages fit together, visit the Security Guards Insurance hub.
Risk Scenarios: Armed vs. Unarmed
- Armed: A firearm discharge during an incident leads to injury and legal action
- Unarmed: A guard fails to intervene or respond to an incident, resulting in a negligence claim
Both scenarios can result in significant financial exposure, but armed incidents typically carry higher severity.
What Affects Insurance Costs?
- Whether guards are armed or unarmed
- Type of assignments (events, patrol, high-risk sites)
- Number of employees and payroll
- Claims history and loss experience
- Training, certifications, and safety procedures
Armed operations generally face higher premiums due to increased claim severity potential.
Compliance and Licensing Considerations
Armed security personnel must meet stricter licensing and training requirements in most states. Insurance carriers often require proof of compliance before issuing or renewing coverage.
Failure to meet licensing or training requirements can lead to denied claims or coverage issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is insurance more expensive for armed security guards?
Yes. Armed security operations typically have higher premiums due to increased risk and potential claim severity.
Do unarmed guards still need liability insurance?
Yes. Unarmed guards can still face claims related to negligence, failure to act, or improper conduct.
Can one policy cover both armed and unarmed guards?
In many cases, yes, but the insurer must be aware of both exposures and underwrite them appropriately.
Do insurers require training documentation?
Often yes, especially for armed guards. Training, certifications, and procedures are key underwriting factors.
Need help structuring the right coverage?
Speak with an insurance specialist.