What Is a Keyholding Company?
A keyholding company is a professional security provider that holds a secure set of keys to your premises, ready to respond in the event of an alarm activation, emergency, or out-of-hours access requirement. Instead of placing this responsibility on your staff or yourself, you assign it to trained, licensed security professionals.
This service is particularly valuable for businesses, landlords, and property managers who need peace of mind that someone will respond quickly and appropriately, no matter the hour.
When an alarm is triggered, a keyholding company will:
- Attend the site 24/7
- Investigate the cause of the alarm
- Liaise with emergency services if needed
- Secure the property before leaving
- Provide a full incident report
But keyholding isn’t just about alarm response. Many companies also offer lock/unlock services, vacant property inspections, and emergency callouts, all carried out by fully trained security operatives.
In short: A keyholding company provides a rapid, reliable, and professional response whenever your property needs attention, even when you’re not there.
Whether you manage a retail store, office building, construction site, or vacant property, a keyholding company can be your first line of defence against threats like break-ins, vandalism, or fire.
Why You Might Need a Keyholding Company
You’ve locked the doors. Installed the alarms. Maybe even fitted CCTV. But when that alarm triggers at 2:37 AM, who’s responding?
That’s where a keyholding company becomes essential, not just as a backup, but as part of your primary security strategy.
Here’s why:
🔁 1. 24/7 Emergency Response
Emergencies don’t respect office hours. Whether it’s a triggered alarm, a broken window, or suspicious activity, a keyholding company ensures a trained professional is dispatched immediately, day or night.
No waking up staff.
No personal risk.
No delays.
🧯 2. Rapid Alarm Attendance
Time matters. In many break-ins, thieves are in and out within minutes. Keyholding companies are positioned to respond faster than internal teams, often reducing potential damage or theft dramatically.
In some areas, police will only attend if a keyholder is enroute. No keyholding? No police backup.
🧑⚖️ 3. Vacant Property Legal & Insurance Compliance
Many insurers require proof of keyholding and alarm response arrangements, particularly for commercial or vacant properties. Failure to comply can mean denied claims after an incident.
A professional keyholding contract can tick the compliance box and reduce premiums.
🛡️ 4. Staff Safety and Liability
Asking an employee to respond alone to an alarm in the middle of the night puts them at risk of harm and opens you to legal liability.
Using a keyholding company means:
- No lone worker risks
- No on-call stress
- No liability if something goes wrong
📉 5. Reduced Downtime and Business Disruption
Security breaches can lead to lost stock, damaged property, and operational downtime. A keyholding service minimises disruption by getting things secured quickly, and providing incident reports to keep insurers, landlords, and staff informed.
| Feature | In-House Keyholder | Professional Keyholding Company |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Limited to staff working hours or availability | 24/7 rapid response, including nights & holidays |
| Response Time | May be delayed depending on who is available | Guaranteed response times under service-level agreement |
| Training & Experience | Often untrained in handling emergencies | SIA-licensed, trained security professionals |
| Legal Liability | May expose business to health & safety or insurance risks | Covered by insurance & professional procedures |
| Cost | Hidden costs: overtime, training, insurance | Predictable monthly fee, often more cost-effective |
| Incident Reporting | Often informal or undocumented | Detailed, timestamped reports provided after every call-out |
| Peace of Mind | Relies on individuals | Professional backup and accountability |
In short: You don’t just need someone to hold a key; you need someone who knows exactly what to do with it when things go wrong.
A keyholding company offers far more than just storing a spare key. They’re your rapid-response unit, on-call caretaker, and after-hours problem solver, all rolled into one.
Here’s a breakdown of the core services you can expect:
🚨 1. Alarm Response
When an intruder or fire alarm is triggered, a keyholding company dispatches a licensed security officer to your property to investigate. They’ll:
- Arrive promptly, any time of day or night
- Check for signs of forced entry or damage
- Liaise with police, fire, or emergency services if necessary
- Secure the property and reset the alarm
- Provide a detailed incident report
This is the service most people associate with a keyholding company, and for good reason. It’s the fastest, safest way to respond to a potentially serious incident.
🗝️ 2. Lock and Unlock Services
Keyholding companies can also handle scheduled lock-up and unlock routines for businesses, construction sites, or office buildings. This includes:
- Opening the premises before staff arrive
- Securing all doors and windows after closing
- Disarming and rearming alarm systems
- Checking for hazards before entry
This reduces the risk of giving staff access to alarm codes or keys, and avoids issues like lateness, forgetfulness, or human error.
🧯 3. Emergency Callouts
From power outages to break-ins and even flooding, many keyholding companies offer emergency call-out services for urgent issues. They’ll attend the site, assess the situation, and take steps to minimise damage until you arrive, or resolve it entirely.
🏚️ 4. Vacant Property Checks
Empty buildings are magnets for vandals, squatters, and arson. Keyholding companies often offer Vacant Property Inspections (VPIs) to ensure the property:
- Remains secure and weather-tight
- Shows no signs of forced entry
- Hasn’t been illegally occupied
- Meets insurance requirements
These inspections can be weekly, bi-weekly, or on a custom schedule, with digital reports to prove compliance.
🧾 5. Incident Reporting and Documentation
Professional keyholding companies don’t just respond, they document everything. You’ll receive:
- Timestamped reports
- Photographic evidence (if required)
- Notes on actions taken
- Recommendations for improvement
This transparency is crucial for insurance claims and internal record-keeping.
🔐 Bonus Services (Offered by Top-Tier Providers)
- Key safes and secure storage
- Contractor access facilitation
- Out-of-hours supervision
- Temporary keyholding for special events or short-term lets
In summary: A keyholding company is more than a set of keys, it’s a 24/7 professional safety net for your property.
professional keyholding company
Stay compliant, avoid costly surprises, and protect your property from just £1 per key per day + VAT.
Get started with a free consultation today.
Is a Keyholding Company Worth It? Cost vs. Risk
When considering a keyholding company, many business owners ask the same question:
“Is it really worth paying for?”
To answer that, let’s look at the cost of a keyholding service, and weigh it against the risks you’re exposed to.
💰 Typical Cost of Keyholding
In the UK, professional keyholding services typically cost between £360 and £600 per year, depending on:
- The location of the property
- The level of service required
- Frequency of attendance
- Additional services (e.g. lock/unlock, inspections)
This works out to as little as £1 per day with us, for round-the-clock highly secure storage.
⚠️ The Real Cost of Doing Nothing
Now consider the potential costs if you don’t have professional keyholding in place:
| Consequence | Potential Impact | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Unauthorised Entry | Theft of tools, materials, or confidential items | £2,000–£15,000+ |
| Vandalism or Graffiti | Damage to property and brand reputation | £500–£10,000 |
| Arson or Fire Damage | Destruction of premises and insurance complications | £20,000–£500,000+ |
| Squatter Occupation | Legal removal costs, delays, and clean-up | £5,000–£30,000 |
| Insurance Claim Denial | Non-compliance with policy conditions (e.g., inspections) | Full loss of claim payout |
| Loss of Business Use | Delays in reopening or leasing due to damage | £1,000s in lost revenue |
📉 A False Economy
Asking staff to be your keyholder may seem cheaper, until they:
- Miss the call
- Are unavailable
- Arrive too late
- End up injured or overwhelmed
This not only puts your business at risk, but it could also put your employees in danger and expose your company to legal claims.
✅ Peace of Mind Pays for Itself
For most businesses, the benefit of knowing that a trained, professional responder is ready to handle any situation, no matter the time or day, far outweighs the modest investment.
It’s not just about security. It’s about:
- Protecting your people
- Meeting insurance obligations
- Maintaining business continuity
- And sleeping well at night
“It only takes one incident to wish you had a professional keyholder.”
How to Choose the Right Keyholding Company
Not all keyholding companies are created equal.
When you’re trusting someone with access to your property, often after hours, in high-risk situations, you need more than a name and a uniform. You need experience, reliability, and accountability.
Here’s how to find the right provider:
🛡️ 1. Look for Industry Accreditation
The best keyholding companies are accredited by recognised industry bodies. Look out for:
- SIA (Security Industry Authority) Licensing – Required by law for security staff.
- SSAIB or NSI Accreditation – Ensures audited compliance with industry standards.
- SafeContractor or CHAS – Confirms commitment to health and safety best practices.
- BS 7984-3 – The British Standard for keyholding response services.
Accreditation shows the company is serious about quality, compliance, and continuous improvement.
⏱️ 2. Ask About Response Times
When an alarm goes off, minutes matter. Ask:
- What’s their average response time in your area?
- Do they have local patrol vehicles or centralised teams?
- What’s their guaranteed attendance time?
A great keyholding company can explain their coverage zones clearly and show past performance data.
🔍 3. Request Incident Reports and Procedures
Transparency matters. Ask for:
- A sample incident report
- A copy of their response procedures
- Information on how incidents are logged, tracked, and escalated
You want to see evidence that they take reporting seriously, not just showing up and leaving.
📞 4. Test the Communication
Try contacting their control room or sales team during out-of-hours. Is it:
- Prompt?
- Professional?
- Polite?
If they don’t answer when you’re calling to give them business, imagine what happens during a 3AM alarm call.
💬 5. Ask for Client Testimonials or Case Studies
Reputable companies will gladly share references or real-world stories from other clients in your sector. Look for:
- Similar-sized businesses or sites
- Testimonials with measurable outcomes
- Evidence of reliability and adaptability
A good keyholding company won’t just be a vendor, they’ll be a long-term partner in your security strategy.
✅ Summary: What to Look for in a Keyholding Company
| Criteria | What It Means | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Availability | The company operates around the clock | Emergencies don’t keep office hours |
| Rapid Response Times | Fast attendance when an alarm is triggered | Minimises damage and disruption |
| Trained & Licensed Officers | SIA-licensed and experienced personnel | Ensures legal compliance and professionalism |
| Accreditations & Insurance | SSAIB, SafeContractor, or NSI Gold, plus full liability cover | Adds credibility and protects your business |
| Local Knowledge | Familiarity with your area and risks | Better decision-making during incidents |
| Transparent Reporting | Incident reports and activity logs provided | Keeps you informed and accountable |
“The right keyholding company doesn’t just respond to emergencies, they prevent them from becoming disasters”.
Choosing Peace of Mind with the Right Keyholding Company
Security isn’t just about fences and cameras; it’s about having the right people ready when it matters most.
A professional keyholding company is your silent sentinel:
- The one who gets the midnight call, so you don’t have to.
- The trained responder who handles situations with calm authority.
- The trusted partner who helps keep your property, staff, and reputation protected.
Whether you manage a commercial site, retail premises, or vacant property, the risks of going without a keyholding service can far outweigh the modest cost of being covered.
📣 Ready to Take the Next Step?
Leisure Guard Security is trusted by businesses, councils, and property managers across the UK to provide fast, professional keyholding and alarm response services.
✅ Fully licensed and accredited
✅ 24/7 control room and rapid response
✅ Transparent reports and tailored support
A keyholding company you can trust
Stay compliant, avoid costly surprises, and protect your property from just £1 per key per day + VAT.
Get started with a free consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vacant Property Inspections (VPIs)
What exactly does a keyholding company do?
A keyholding company securely holds spare keys to your property and responds to alarms, emergencies, or access requests 24/7. Their services typically include:
Alarm response
Lock/unlock duties
Vacant property inspections
Emergency call-outs
They act as your first responder, so you or your staff don’t have to.
Is keyholding a legal requirement?
While it’s not a legal requirement for most businesses, some insurance providers require professional keyholding as part of your policy, especially for commercial or high-value premises.
Having a professional keyholder can also help ensure compliance with duty of care obligations and reduce liability.
What if nothing ever happens? Is it still worth it?
Yes, in the same way insurance is worth it. You’re paying for:
Peace of mind
Legal and insurance compliance
A rapid response if something ever does go wrong
Many clients say it’s one of the most affordable and valuable services they use.
How fast will a keyholding company respond?
This depends on the company and your location, but top providers like Leisure Guard aim for response times under 30 minutes in most urban areas. Always ask for average response times and coverage maps before signing up.
Can they cover multiple sites?
Yes. Most keyholding companies offer multi-site coverage and can manage access and response protocols for:
Retail chains
Property portfolios
Business parks
Construction sites
What should I ask when choosing a keyholding company?
Key questions include:
Are your staff SIA licensed?
What’s your response time in my area?
Are you accredited (SSAIB, NSI, BS 7984-3)?
How do you report and document incidents?
Can you provide references?
How much does it cost?
Prices vary, but most clients pay between £30–£50 per month depending on the location and services. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to safeguard your property. Leisure Guard Security charge a simple £1 per key per day.
What happens if there’s an incident?
Your keyholding company will:
Attend the site
Assess the situation
Contact emergency services if needed
Secure the site
Submit a full incident report
They’ll only escalate to you if necessary, so you’re not disturbed for false alarms.
