Every security agency says it is “the best”. The difference shows up three months later — when a guard sleeps on night duty, nobody covers his leave, or you find that the guards were paid below minimum wage. Use this checklist to compare agencies in Varanasi on facts, not promises.
The 12-point checklist
- PSARA licence — ask for the licence copy and check that it covers your district and is valid.
- Years in operation — an agency that has run for many years has survived on repeat clients.
- Police verification — ask for verification records of the actual guards you will get.
- Training — basic security training, fire safety and first aid at minimum.
- Supervision — how often a supervisor visits, especially at night.
- Reliever system — who covers leave and absences.
- Statutory compliance — minimum wages, PF and ESI paid to guards.
- Uniform and equipment — included or charged extra?
- Proper invoice — GST registration and SAC 998525 on the bill.
- Written agreement — duties, rates, notice period, replacement policy.
- References — two or three current clients you can call.
- 24/7 contact — a control room or manager reachable at night.
Red flags to avoid
- A rate far below the market — usually means guards are underpaid or PF/ESI is skipped, which becomes your liability.
- No licence copy, or “licence is under process”.
- Cash payments without a proper GST invoice.
- No supervisor — just a phone number of the owner.
- Frequent guard changes without informing you.
Questions to ask before you sign
- Who exactly will be posted, and can I meet them first?
- What happens if a guard is absent or misbehaves?
- How is attendance recorded and shared with me?
- What is included in the monthly rate, and what is extra?
- What is the notice period to increase, reduce or end the service?
Compare quotes the right way
Ask every agency for an itemised quote: wages, PF, ESI, uniform, supervision, agency charges and GST. Compare like with like — an 8-hour guard against an 8-hour guard, not a 12-hour one. Our cost guide explains each line.
Frequently asked questions
Is a PSARA licence compulsory for a security agency?
Yes. Under the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005, no one can run a private security agency without a licence from the state’s controlling authority. Read more in our PSARA guide.
Should I choose the cheapest quote?
Not by itself. A very low rate often means skipped wages or statutory dues, poor supervision or no reliever — all of which cost more later.
Related guides
- PSARA licence: why it matters
- Security guard cost per month in Varanasi (2026)
- Security guard services in Varanasi: complete guide
Need a reliable security agency in Varanasi? Shiv Security Service is a PSARA-licensed security agency with police-verified, trained guards and 24/7 supervision. We have been protecting people and property since 2009. To get a free site survey and quote, book security staff online, use our contact page, message us on WhatsApp or call us.