top of page

What Insurance Companies Look for in Commercial Property Security

When it comes to commercial property security, insurance companies don’t just look at whether cameras are installed. They look at how well risks are managed, how incidents are prevented, and how quickly problems are handled when they arise.


Security plays a major role in claims, liability, and long-term risk exposure. That’s why insurance carriers increasingly favor properties that take a proactive, professional approach to security - especially those using live monitoring and verified response systems.


Here’s what insurance companies really look for when evaluating commercial property security.


1. Incident Prevention, Not Just Evidence Collection


Insurance companies prefer systems that stop incidents before damage occurs.


Recorded footage may help after a loss, but it doesn’t reduce the cost of claims. Live-monitored security cameras, on the other hand, actively prevent theft, vandalism, and trespassing by allowing immediate intervention.


From an insurance perspective, fewer incidents mean:


  • Fewer claims

  • Lower payouts

  • Reduced long-term risk


Prevention matters more than documentation alone.


2. Verified Alerts That Reduce False Dispatches


False alarms are a problem for insurers, property owners, and law enforcement. Security systems that rely only on motion alerts often generate unnecessary police calls.


These false dispatches can lead to fines, compliance issues, and increased liability.


Insurance companies favor security setups that include:


  • Live monitoring by trained professionals

  • Verified threat assessment before escalation

  • Responsible emergency response


Verified alerts reduce risk while improving overall security effectiveness.


3. Protection of High-Risk Areas


Insurers closely examine whether vulnerable areas are properly secured.


High-risk zones often include:


  • Entrances and exits

  • Parking lots and garages

  • Loading docks

  • Storage areas

  • Vacant or low-traffic sections of a property


It’s not about how many cameras you have - it’s about where they are placed and how they are monitored.


Strategic coverage lowers the likelihood of break-ins and repeat claims.


4. 24/7 Coverage - Especially After Hours


Most commercial property incidents happen after business hours.


Insurance companies expect security to be active nights, weekends, and holidays - when staff is not on site and properties are most vulnerable.


Live-monitored camera systems provide round-the-clock protection, ensuring incidents are addressed even when buildings are empty.


From an insurer’s standpoint, continuous coverage equals reduced exposure.


5. Clear Documentation and Reporting


When incidents do happen, insurers want accurate records.


Professional security systems provide:


  • Time-stamped video footage

  • Incident reports

  • Response logs


This documentation supports insurance claims, speeds up investigations, and protects property owners from disputes.


Clear records demonstrate that the property owner took reasonable steps to manage risk.


6. Visible Deterrence That Reduces Repeat Claims


Insurance companies care about repeat incidents.


Properties that experience multiple break-ins or vandalism events are seen as higher risk. Visible deterrence - such as cameras, signage, lighting, and audio warnings - helps stop criminals before damage occurs.


Live-monitored systems send a strong message: This property is actively protected.

That deterrence lowers the chance of recurring claims.


7. Secure, Well-Maintained Systems


Modern security systems must also be protected from cyber risks.


Insurance carriers look for:

  • Encrypted systems

  • Secure networks

  • Regular software and firmware updates

  • Proper access controls


Poorly secured systems increase liability and expose sensitive data. Professional installation and maintenance help ensure system integrity over time.



8. Temporary and High-Risk Situations Are Covered


Insurance expectations don’t stop during transitions.


Properties face increased risk during:


  • Construction or renovation

  • Vacancy between tenants

  • Property upgrades or expansions


Mobile surveillance trailers and fast-deploy security systems show insurers that risk is being managed - even when permanent systems aren’t in place.

This proactive approach reduces exposure during vulnerable periods.


9. Professional Installation and Monitoring


DIY systems and poorly installed cameras often fail when they’re needed most.


Insurance companies favor professionally installed and monitored systems because they:


  • Reduce blind spots

  • Ensure consistent performance

  • Lower the chance of system failure


Professional monitoring also ensures accountability and proper escalation during incidents.


10. Proof of Proactive Risk Management


At the highest level, insurance companies want to see that property owners take security seriously.


That doesn’t always mean lower premiums - but it can mean:


  • Better underwriting decisions

  • Fewer claim disputes

  • Faster resolution when incidents occur

  • Reduced long-term liability


Security is no longer just a cost - it’s a risk management strategy.


Why This Matters for Commercial Property Owners


Commercial security decisions affect more than safety. They influence:


  • Insurance outcomes

  • Liability exposure

  • Property value

  • Tenant confidence


Live-monitored security systems align closely with what insurers want to see: prevention, verification, documentation, and professional response.


Need Commercial Security Solutions in Phoenix or Tucson, AZ?


At Deetur Security, we help commercial property owners meet modern security expectations with:


  • Live-monitored security cameras

  • Active deterrence

  • Fast deployment options

  • Mobile surveillance trailers for temporary risk


Contact Deetur Security today to build a security plan that protects your property - and demonstrates proactive risk management to insurance providers.



 
 
bottom of page