Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What types of security services does BBSI provide?

Accepted Answer

BBSI offers a full spectrum of security solutions including armed and unarmed guard services, executive protection, mobile patrol, event security, school and campus security, senior living facility security, construction site security, cannabis facility security, and corporate security consulting. We serve both private clients and government/institutional accounts throughout New Jersey and New York.

Question 2

Do you provide 24/7 security coverage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BBSI operates around the clock, 365 days a year. Whether you need a single overnight post or a multi-site operation with rotating shifts, we staff to your schedule. Our dispatch and supervisory team is reachable at all hours for emergencies and shift changes.

Question 3

What is the difference between armed and unarmed security?

Accepted Answer

Armed security officers carry a licensed firearm and are deployed where a visible deterrent or rapid response capability is required — high-value asset protection, cash handling, cannabis facilities, and certain government contracts. Unarmed officers provide access control, patrol, and customer-facing security presence. BBSI will recommend the appropriate level of protection after a site assessment.

Question 4

Can BBSI handle large-scale events?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We have staffed events ranging from community festivals and corporate galas to NFL and celebrity appearances. Our event security teams are trained in crowd management, access control, VIP escort, and emergency evacuation procedures. We coordinate directly with local law enforcement and venue management.

Question 5

Do you offer executive protection and bodyguard services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our executive protection division provides close-protection details for corporate executives, public figures, celebrities, and dignitaries. Services include advance work, secure transportation coordination, threat assessment, and 24/7 personal protection. EP agents have various levels of training depending on need — be it defensive tactics, emergency medical response, SORA or other state-required training, law enforcement, or former military background.

Question 6

Is BBSI fully licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Black Belt Security & Investigations holds all required state licenses: NJ Private Detective License #8690, NJ Security Agency License #1496, NY Watch Guard License #11000176227. We are also certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE #A0678-64) and Minority Business Enterprise (MBE #A0678-65), and are compliant with NJ Public Works and AA-302 requirements for government contracts.

Question 7

Are your officers background-checked and trained?

Accepted Answer

Every BBSI officer undergoes a comprehensive background investigation including criminal history, employment verification, and reference checks before being hired. All officers complete state-mandated security training and receive ongoing in-house training in defensive tactics, de-escalation, first aid, and site-specific procedures. Many of our senior staff hold law enforcement or military backgrounds.

Question 8

Can BBSI fulfill government and institutional contracts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BBSI is certified for government and public-sector work. Our SBE and MBE certifications, combined with our NJ Public Works compliance and AA-302 certification, qualify us for municipal, county, state, and federal contract opportunities. We have an established track record with government and institutional clients.

Question 9

Can BBSI work with clients outside New Jersey and New York?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and this is one of our most important capabilities for corporate clients. BBSI operates in three ways beyond our licensed footprint. First, as a direct service provider in New Jersey and New York. Second, as a certified MBE/SBE subcontractor partnering with larger national security firms — many prime contractors actively seek certified minority and small business partners to meet compliance requirements on government and corporate contracts. Third, through our established network of vetted security partners across the country, we can serve as the single point of contact for corporate clients who want one firm to manage security operations in multiple states. You deal with us; we coordinate the rest. For clients with international travel or overseas operations, we also maintain relationships with trusted security providers abroad, covering executive protection, threat assessment, and travel security in regions where our clients operate. Whether your need is local, national, or global, BBSI can structure a solution that works.

Question 10

What kinds of investigations does BBSI conduct?

Accepted Answer

Our licensed detective division handles a wide range of investigations including workers' compensation and insurance fraud, corporate due diligence, background investigations, surveillance, missing persons, infidelity and domestic matters, asset searches, and process serving. All investigations are conducted lawfully and with strict confidentiality.

Question 11

How confidential are your investigation services?

Accepted Answer

Completely. All client information, case details, and findings are held in strict confidence. We operate under NJ Private Detective License #8690 and are bound by state law regarding the handling of investigative information. Case files are never shared with third parties without your explicit written consent.

Question 12

How long does a typical investigation take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline varies by case complexity. A straightforward background check may be completed in 24–72 hours. Surveillance operations and fraud investigations typically run one to four weeks depending on subject activity and the scope of evidence required. We provide regular status updates and a detailed written report upon case closure.

Question 13

Is BBSI currently hiring security officers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are actively recruiting. BBSI is growing and we are always looking for qualified, professional individuals who take pride in their work. We hire armed officers, unarmed officers, patrol drivers, and investigators. Visit our Employment page to view current openings and submit an application.

Question 14

What qualifications do I need to apply?

Accepted Answer

Minimum requirements include a valid NJ or NY security officer license (or eligibility to obtain one), a clean background, reliable transportation, and a professional demeanor. Prior law enforcement, military, or security experience is a strong plus. Armed officer positions require a valid firearms permit. We provide training and support for candidates who meet our standards.

Question 15

Does BBSI offer training for new officers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BBSI operates a training division that covers security fundamentals, defensive tactics, de-escalation, emergency response, and site-specific protocols. New hires receive orientation training before their first assignment, and ongoing professional development is available to all staff. Our founder, Eldridge Hawkins, is a martial arts Hall of Fame inductee and personally oversees our defensive tactics curriculum.

Question 16

How do I get a quote for security services?

Accepted Answer

Contact us through our website, call 1-800-493-1859, or email Sales@BBSILLC.com. We will schedule a no-obligation consultation and site assessment to understand your specific needs. From there we prepare a detailed proposal with staffing recommendations, coverage schedule, and pricing.

Question 17

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

BBSI is headquartered in New Jersey and primarily serves the greater New York/New Jersey metro area, including all of NJ and the New York City boroughs. We can accommodate clients in surrounding states for executive protection, investigations, and special event assignments. For national and international needs, see our answer about geographic reach and partnerships above.

Question 18

How quickly can BBSI deploy security personnel?

Accepted Answer

For standard contracts we typically require 5–7 business days to properly vet, assign, and brief officers for a new site. For urgent or emergency situations we can often deploy qualified personnel within 24–48 hours. Contact our operations team directly for time-sensitive requests.

Question 19

Do you offer security consulting without a full guard contract?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our consulting services are available independently of a staffing contract. We conduct security audits, threat and vulnerability assessments, policy development, and emergency preparedness planning for businesses, schools, houses of worship, and residential communities. A written report with prioritized recommendations is delivered at the conclusion of every engagement.

Our Services

Licensing & Compliance

Geographic Reach & Partnerships

Investigations

Employment

Working with BBSI

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