Beware of Albuquerque's unlicensed security companies and don't rely on Internet online directories..

Albuquerque, NM- October 1, 2009-  New Mexico has laws pertaining to security companies but unfortunately not all (or most) companies follow them.  Each security company myst have a 'trade PPO' registered with the state that authorizes the company to do business.  People looking to hire a security company in Albuquerque use the computer and Google like everyone else.  There are many Internet directories that rank high with Google and bring a security consumer to a list of available "security companies."  WATCH OUT BECAUSE MANY OF THE COMPANIES LISTED ARE NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE LAW.

DexKnows.com (or doesn't know)

Here are just some of the ones I noticed that have no license to operate as a security company but have listings in the directories listed below:

1.  ABC Security
2.  V Team LLC
3.  Five O Security
4.  McAlum Security
5. Legit Security
6. G & R Security
7. Duncan Security
8. Vital Protective Sevices (has a license but also has a RESTRAINING ORDER issued by the state not permitting work any work in the state)

Superpages.com (not so super)- CLICK HERE-

1.  Guards to go
2.  All Saints Protective Services
3.  American Security
4.  Impact Security
5.  JRS Private Security
6.  Maez Security Consultants (only licensed as an Investigator Trade PPO)
7.  PWP Security Service
8.  Respond New mexico
9.  Specialized Protective Services

Merchantcircle.com

1.  S & J Security
2.  Rapid Response Security
3.  Highway Prevention
4.  JABS Security
5.  Hamilton White Group
6.  BMP Protective Service

Anyone could do this search and it is inexcusable that some (any) enforcement/ regulatory agency doesn't do the same search on at least a yearly basis.  These are just a few of the directories out there.. It is unfortunate that many security consumers are being lured into using unlicensed companies who have directory listings.

The State of NM requires the following for a LEGAL security company:

1. Active Trade PPO license
2. Active Manager or Owner PPO license 
3. City Business License
4. NM Tax Certificate
5. Commercial General Liability Insurance policy
6. Worker's Compensation policy for companies with more than 3 employees (as a consumer- I would think you would require this coverage!)
7. State Approved Uniforms
8. All guards must have state issued licenses, FBI Background checks and state required training
9. Compliance with all license laws, statutes, etc.

Of course, there are many licensed security companies that provide good services in Albuquerque.  These firms are easy to find and are also readily available in the same directories.  Don't hire an unlicensed company.  It is a liability.  

You can protect yourself by requiring that any company that bids for work, presents the above, with their bid for security services.  Call New Mexico's Regulatory Agency with any questions with licensing or compliance: 505-476-4664.

Comments

[Ralph E.]

When will this stop? This is not your job but thank GOD you take it upon yourself to spread the word. The state really needs to do the same thing even when they are not under pressure by the media..

[a]

umm, McAlum has not been around for over 4 years. it is now U.S. security Associates

[Robb Hamic]

That was my understanding too. I just noticed that the company name is still appearing in the directories.