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Physical Security Audits
An independent review of your space, procedures, and highest-risk areas, with a written report that sets out what to fix first, how to fix each issue, and a proposed plan for implementation.
I am Zach Baumgart, a former federal special agent and Certified Fraud Examiner. I was responsible for physical security and emergency planning at U.S. embassies and consulates overseas. About me
Independent Advice, with Nothing to Sell
I do not sell security guards, alarms, cameras, or any other products or equipment. I only provide my services, so my findings are never tied to something I am selling. My only interest is giving you an honest assessment and recommendations that fit your needs and budget.
What the Security Audit Covers
A security audit is also called a physical security assessment or survey.
Your Space
- Entrances, lighting, sight lines, access control, and how people move through the building or property
- Current security arrangements, including CCTV, locks, alarms, and the use of security contractors
- Surrounding areas, including parking lots and adjacent spaces
Your Procedures
- A review of your current procedures that identifies potential gaps or vulnerabilities
- An assessment of the implementation of your procedures by your staff and security contractors
High-Risk Areas
- Cash and sensitive information
- Storage of high-value inventory
- Receiving areas
- Sensitive areas, including financial management and human resources spaces
Testing
With your written authorization, security audits can also include testing of your physical security systems and processes, such as attempts to gain access to limited-access areas or to obtain sensitive information from the organization, and checks that security procedures, like door locking and alarm setting, are followed.
What You Receive
A Written Report
The report includes photographs and ranks each finding by assessed level of risk, so you know your biggest risks and vulnerabilities. It also includes my recommendations for improvement and proposals on how to address any concerns.
After the Report
Your report is confidential and delivered only to you, and I will sign a nondisclosure contract if you ask. I can brief your management, help carry out the recommendations, and check the fixes later, either as a one-time project or through a Security Director on Demand contract.
Already Have a Guard Company or Alarm Vendor?
I can audit your security contracts and vendors to verify whether they are providing services in accordance with your contracts. I report the results to you, and if you choose, I can engage with the security contractor or vendor directly to address any problems identified.
Examples of Physical Security Audits by Industry
Retail
Cash handling, stockrooms, receiving areas, and the points where inventory goes missing.
Restaurants and Bars
Cash, liquor storage and access, closing routines, and patron safety.
Medical and Law Offices
After-hours access, access control procedures, storage of controlled or sensitive items, and protection of client and patient records.
Schools and Childcare
Entry control, visitor management, student check-in and check-out procedures, access procedures for service vendors, and perimeter fencing.
Houses of Worship and Nonprofits
Open-door settings, handling of collections and donations including back-office administration procedures, and security arrangements for religious services or events.
Professional and Financial Offices
Access control, visitor and delivery procedures, protection of financial, personnel, and client records, and after-hours security.
My Experience
At U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, I was responsible for physical security and emergency planning, including access control, management of security services contracts, management and deployment of armed guard forces, control of CCTV and alarm systems, key control procedures, and the secure storage of sensitive and classified information.
How It Works
Initial Consultation
I start with a confidential consultation by phone or virtual meeting lasting about 15 minutes. The consultation is complimentary.
Develop a Security Audit Proposal
I work with you to develop the scope and proposal for the security audit. There is no charge for developing the proposal.
Conduct the Security Audit
I review your procedures, physical space, high-risk areas, and current security arrangements. The security audit can include multiple site visits at different times of day and, with your approval, brief discussions with staff.
Written Report
You receive a written report that identifies findings by risk level, with recommendations on how to fix each issue, a proposed plan for implementation, and proposals on how to mitigate the identified risks.
Where I Work
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a security audit take?
It depends on the size and complexity of your site. An assessment of a service office or retail shop with a single location, minimal on-hand cash, and small amounts of sensitive data can be completed in as few as two site visits, with the report completed in five business days or less. I will give you an estimated timeline as part of the contract proposal.
How much does it cost?
The cost varies based on the scope of the security audit and the size of the location(s). An assessment of a medium-sized professional services office, such as an accounting or law office, will generally cost about $1,000. There is no charge for the initial consultation and the proposal. I will discuss the cost with you while developing the proposal to ensure it meets your security needs and your budget.
Will my staff know?
That is your decision. Some parts of a security audit work best when staff are not told in advance, so I agree on the approach with ownership or management beforehand.
Do you recommend specific products?
I recommend what you need to mitigate potential risks. My recommendations are always independent, as I do not accept referral fees or commissions from any product or vendor. The only one who pays me is you.
Can you audit more than one location?
Yes, I can conduct security audits of as many locations as you need.
Is a security audit a one-time project?
It can be. You can order a security audit as a one-off project or include it in an ongoing Security Director on Demand contract.
Related Services
Each of my services is available individually or as part of a Security Director on Demand contract. A security audit can often lead to or also require emergency procedures, threat assessment, and staff training. See my full list of services.