Starting a security business is exciting. Soon, clients ask one question. “Are you SIA ACS approved?” For a new security company, SIA ACS approval is often a top goal. Many buyers prefer approved contractors. Also, some tenders ask for it. So, can you apply on day one? No. The SIA has a clear trading rule first. Still, you can start preparing today. Many new owners feel unsure at this stage. They hear different advice from different people. As a result, they wait too long or apply too early. Both choices can slow down business growth. That is why a clear plan matters. A New Security Company SIA ACS plan helps you know what to do and when to do it. It also helps you avoid costly mistakes. This guide explains the rules, the checks, and the steps to follow in your first year.
What Is SIA ACS Approval?
Many owners hear “SIA ACS” but never get a clear meaning. So, let’s fix that first. The scheme checks your business, not just your staff. Buyers then use it as proof that you run a well-managed company. In short, SIA ACS tells clients that an independent body has checked your company.
Who Runs the Approved Contractor Scheme?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) runs the scheme. The Home Office sponsors this public body. First, the SIA licenses individual security operatives. Through ACS, it also approves private security companies. However, approval covers specific activities, not the whole company. For example, the SIA may approve you for door supervision but not for security guarding. Also, the SIA does not give gold, silver, or bronze levels.
Is ACS Mandatory in the UK?
No. The scheme is voluntary. Every approved company chooses to join. However, voluntary does not mean unimportant. Many large clients now treat approval as a minimum standard. Therefore, a new security company SIA ACS plan can open doors that would otherwise stay closed. Meanwhile, your staff still need SIA licences by law. So, think of ACS as an extra step on top.
Why a New Security Company SIA ACS Approval Matters
New businesses face one big problem. Buyers do not know them yet. However, ACS approval helps solve that problem. It gives clients independent proof that you meet a recognised standard. As a result, a new security company’s SIA ACS approval can speed up trust.
Winning Larger Contracts and Tenders
Many tenders list ACS approval as a requirement. Without it, you may not even reach the shortlist.
Approval also helps in other ways:
- You appear on the public SIA register.
- You receive a certificate and approved contractor branding.
- You can apply for contracts that ask for ACS.
As a result, your sales team has a stronger story to tell.
Building Trust with Clients
Trust matters most in security. After all, clients hand you the safety of their people and property. An independent assessment shows that you take that duty seriously. Also, clients can check your status on the SIA register. So, they do not need to take your word for it. In short, approval turns “trust us” into “check us”. That message works well for any new company.
Can a New Security Company Apply Straight Away?
Most new owners ask this first. Sadly, the answer is not yet. The SIA wants proof that your business already works in the real world. This rule protects buyers. Also, it stops you from wasting money on an early application.
The 12-Month Trading Rule
The SIA expects you to have provided security services for at least 12 months. Also, you must provide them under contract. Therefore, a company that started last month cannot apply yet. Count your months from your first real contract. Then keep copies of your contracts and invoices. They help you prove your track record later.
What Happens If You Apply Too Early?
If you do not meet the rules, the SIA stops assessing your application. Worse, you cannot get the application fee back. So, check every rule before you apply. Do not guess. Instead, build a simple checklist and tick each item. Also, if you feel unsure, speak to the SIA or a trusted adviser first.
New Security Company SIA ACS Eligibility Requirements
Time in business is only one part. In fact, the SIA checks several other things. So, let’s go through them one by one.
Services Provided Under Contract
You must supply security services under contract. In-house security teams do not qualify. The scheme covers companies that sell security services to clients. Also, your services must fall under activities the SIA licenses. For example, these include security guarding, door supervision, CCTV and key holding. However, alarm installation and general consultancy do not count.
Two Licensable Operatives per Activity
You need at least two licensable operatives in each activity you want approved. For example, you may want approval for guarding and door supervision. In that case, you need two operatives for guarding and two for door supervision. So, plan your recruitment around this rule. Otherwise, you may reach month twelve and still not qualify.
Employed Staff Requirement
The people you deploy on regulated work must be employees. Alternatively, they can be employees for tax purposes. In July 2026, the SIA added this point to its guidance. Therefore, review your contracts and payroll early. Fixing the set-up later takes more time and effort. Also, if you use self-employed guards today, take advice before you apply.
SIA Licences for All Directors and Operatives
Every director must hold a valid SIA licence. This includes executive directors, non-executive directors and shadow directors. It also includes parent company directors. In addition, every operative you deploy needs a valid licence. Without approval, you cannot deploy anyone who does not yet have the physical licence in hand. So, keep a simple tracker with licence numbers and expiry dates.
Fit and Proper Checks
The SIA checks the people who control your business. It looks at four areas:
- Identity
- Criminal history
- Financial circumstances
- Integrity
Therefore, be honest and open on your forms. Hiding a problem usually causes more harm than the problem itself.
How to Prepare for New Security Company SIA ACS Approval
The first year is not wasted time. Instead, use it to build a strong base. Then apply with confidence in month thirteen.
Build Your Contracts and Track Record
Win your first clients and sign written contracts. Then keep every agreement in one folder. Also, deliver a good service. Your first clients become your references. In addition, they give you the real examples you need during assessment. If you must, start small. After all, steady growth looks better than fast and messy growth.
Keep SIA Licences Valid
Never let a licence lapse. A missed expiry date can put your whole application at risk. Therefore, set reminders 90 days and 30 days before each expiry. Also, check licences before every new deployment. Moreover, record each check in writing. As a result, good habits now will save you stress during the ACS assessment.
Set Up Screening and Training Records
Assessors want to see how you hire and train people. So, create a clear process for each step.
Your records should show:
- How you screen new staff
- What training each person completed
- When refresher training is due
Also, many UK security firms follow BS 7858 for staff screening. Using it early gives your files a solid structure.
Put Policies and Procedures in Place
Write simple policies that match how you really work. For example, cover complaints, incidents, health and safety, and data protection. However, do not copy a generic template and forget it. Assessors ask staff how the policy works in practice. Consequently, your team must know and follow each policy. In short, clear and brief documents work best.
Use the Self-Assessment Workbook Early
The SIA publishes the ACS self-assessment workbook on GOV.UK. So, read it in your first year. It shows exactly what evidence you must produce. Also, read the 2025 and 2026 updates. Then score yourself honestly and list the gaps. This single step often saves new companies the most time.
Standard Route vs Passport Route
Once you qualify, you choose a route. However, both routes use the same SIA eligibility checks. Neither one lets you skip the 12-month rule.
How the Standard Route Works
On the standard route, you first assess your own company. Next, you apply through your SIA online account. Then, after the SIA confirms you qualify, an approved assessing body visits you. Current assessing bodies include British Assessment Bureau, NSI, and SSAIB. The assessor writes a report. Finally, the SIA reviews it and decides.
How the Passport Route Works
On the passport route, you first get certified through an SIA-accredited scheme. At present, that scheme is the NSI ACS Passport Scheme. Then you apply to the SIA with proof of certification. After that, the SIA runs its checks and makes a decision. However, the scheme covers only certain activities. So, check the list before you choose this route.
Which Route Suits a New Company?
Many new companies prefer the standard route. It suits any eligible business. Also, you do not need prior certification. The passport route may suit you if you already work with the scheme provider. Similarly, it may suit you if your activity is on the passport list. Before you decide, speak to the assessing bodies. They can explain which route fits your business.
New Security Company SIA ACS Costs
Budget early. That way, nothing surprises you in month twelve. In total, the cost of ACS has three parts. Each part works differently. We do not list figures in this guide because they change. Instead, we explain each part below. Also, our team can walk you through the numbers on a call.
Application Fee
You pay the SIA an application fee when you apply. The amount depends on how many licensable staff you have. However, you cannot get the fee back. So, apply only when you meet every rule. Also, check the SIA website for the current table. Alternatively, ask us to confirm the figure for your company size.
Annual Registration Fee
After approval, you pay an annual registration fee. You pay it every year while you stay approved. The fee depends on how many licensable people you deploy. Therefore, plan for it as your team grows. In addition, add it to your yearly budget from the start.
Assessing Body Fees
Assessing bodies charge their own fees. The SIA application fee does not cover them. Each provider sets its own quote. So, ask for a written quote from more than one. Then compare what each one includes. Finally, choose the option that fits your budget and timeline.
Your 12-Month ACS Preparation Plan
A plan keeps you calm and on track. So, use these four steps as a guide:
- Months 1 to 3: Register the business, secure SIA licences, sign contracts and set up payroll and insurance.
- Months 4 to 6: Build screening, training and policy systems. Start collecting evidence.
- Months 7 to 9: Read the self-assessment workbook. Score yourself and close the gaps.
- Months 10 to 12: Run a mock assessment. Confirm eligibility and pick your route.
Then, in month thirteen, submit your application. Also, review the plan every month and adjust it as you grow.
Common Mistakes New Security Companies Make
Many new owners repeat the same errors. So, avoid these:
- Applying too early and losing the application fee
- Forgetting that directors need SIA licences too
- Using self-employed operatives without checking the rules
- Leaving paperwork until the last minute
- Claiming “ACS approved” before the SIA grants approval
However, the last mistake is the most serious. Claiming approval when you do not have it is a criminal offence. This includes showing the ACS mark too early. Therefore, always wait until your name appears on the SIA register.
New Security Company SIA ACS Support from BizGrow Holdings
A new security company’s SIA ACS journey takes patience. First, you cannot apply in your first year. Yet you can prepare every month of it. At BizGrow Holdings, we help UK security companies get ready for ACS and other accreditations. Our services include:
- Gap analysis against the ACS workbook
- Policy and procedure writing
- Evidence building and file checks
- Mock assessments
- Support with BS 7858, BS 7499 and ISO standards
We do not promise approval. However, we do promise clear advice and honest support. Ready to plan your route? Book a free compliance call with BizGrow Holdings today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is ACS the same as an SIA licence?
No. An SIA licence covers one person who does regulated work. ACS approval covers a whole business. So, your company needs licensed staff first, then ACS if you choose it.
2. Can I add another activity later?
Yes. An approved contractor can apply to add an activity. However, you must meet the eligibility rules for that activity. The SIA approves each activity on its own.
3. Can I say I am ACS approved while I wait?
No. Claiming approval before the SIA grants it is a criminal offence. So, wait until your company appears on the SIA register. Then you can use the approved contractor mark.
4. Do in-house security teams qualify?
No. The scheme covers companies that supply security services under contract. In-house teams do not fit that rule. Therefore, check this point before you plan an application.
5. How can I check if a company is approved?
Search the SIA register of approved contractors. It is public and easy to use. Also, check it before you hire or subcontract to any security firm.