Security Audit Checklist –
Most business owners don’t know how secure their premises really are.
A professionally installed burglar alarm is an important part of protecting a business, but it works best when it’s part of a wider security strategy. To help Halifax businesses identify potential weaknesses, we’ve created this simple self-assessment.
Work through each section below and give yourself the suggested score.
Building Access (20 Points)
□ All external doors are high-security and well maintained (5)
□ Rear and side entrances remain locked during trading hours (5)
□ Fire exits cannot be accessed from outside (5)
□ Visitors cannot enter staff-only areas without authorisation (5)
Your score: ____ /20
Alarm Protection (20 Points)
□ Your alarm has been serviced within the last 12 months (5)
□ All vulnerable areas are protected (5)
□ Staff understand how to operate the alarm correctly (5)
□ The system still reflects your current building layout (5)
Your score: ____ /20
Stock & Equipment (15 Points)
□ High-value equipment is stored securely (5)
□ Keys are not left in obvious locations (5)
□ Deliveries and valuable goods aren’t left unattended (5)
Your score: ____ /15
Staff Security (15 Points)
□ Opening and closing procedures are documented (5)
□ Alarm codes are unique to authorised users (5)
□ Former employees no longer have alarm access (5)
Your score: ____ /15
External Security (15 Points)
□ External lighting covers entrances (5)
□ Fencing and gates are maintained (5)
□ Landscaping doesn’t create hiding places (5)
Your score: ____ /15
Business Continuity (15 Points)
□ Emergency contact details are current (5)
□ Keyholder procedures are reviewed regularly (5)
□ Security procedures are documented (5)
Your score: ____ /15
Your Result
90–100 Points
Excellent.
Your business appears to have a well-rounded approach to physical security. Continue reviewing your systems annually as your business develops.
70–89 Points
Good, but there is room for improvement.
Addressing a handful of weaknesses now could significantly improve overall protection.
50–69 Points
Moderate Risk.
Several areas deserve attention. A professional security review could identify practical improvements before vulnerabilities are exploited.
Below 50 Points
High Risk.
Your premises may contain multiple weaknesses that increase the likelihood of theft or unauthorised access. Reviewing your burglar alarm system alongside wider physical security measures should be a priority.
Why Carry Out Regular Security Audits?
Businesses evolve. Offices are reconfigured, storage areas expand, staff change and equipment values increase. Security arrangements that were suitable several years ago may no longer reflect the way your premises operate today.
A security audit provides an opportunity to identify weaknesses before they become expensive problems. It also helps ensure that your burglar alarm system remains aligned with the building, your workforce and your day-to-day operations.
Rather than viewing security as a one-off purchase, successful businesses treat it as an ongoing process of review and improvement.
For businesses across Halifax, regularly auditing physical security is one of the simplest ways to reduce risk, improve resilience and protect staff, premises and valuable assets.
