Arrow Security White Paper – The True Cost of Security: Contract vs. In-House

Managing a security program – whether in-house or outsourced – has never been more complex. Between rising operational demands, growing liability risks, and tighter budgets, it’s crucial to take a closer look at what your current setup is really costing you.

Many organizations assume that an in-house (proprietary) security team is more affordable. But once you factor in payroll taxes, benefits, insurance, recruiting, onboarding, and training, the real cost often paints a very different picture. Add in the time your internal team spends managing scheduling, compliance, and performance, and it becomes clear that the administrative burden alone can be overwhelming.

That’s where contract security providers come in. A reputable partner offers trained officers, built-in recruiting and compliance systems, 24/7 support, and scalable staffing – plus full transparency into performance metrics and KPIs. Not to mention, when a shift needs to be covered, they’ve got it handled. No scrambling, no gaps.

Perhaps most importantly, a contract model helps reduce your exposure to liability. From workers’ comp claims to harassment lawsuits, the risks tied to employing security staff directly are real – and rising. A qualified provider assumes that risk and brings peace of mind knowing your team and facilities are always protected.

If you’re still managing your program in-house, now might be the time to ask: what is it really costing us?

Read the full white paper to explore the data, insights, and critical questions every organization should be asking about their security model.