Whether you’re running a boutique hotel or a full-service luxury property, maintaining top-notch security is critical—not just for your guests, but for your brand. Travelers expect peace of mind during their stay, and even one incident can hurt your reputation. As a professional security service provider in Chicago, we’ve worked with hotels of all sizes, and we’ve seen firsthand the challenges they face.
Below are the top 7 hotel security and safety issues we believe every hotel manager and owner should keep on their radar—and how to handle them before they turn into real problems.
1. Unauthorized Access to Guest Areas
Hotels are designed to be welcoming, but that openness can become a vulnerability. Without proper security measures, unauthorized individuals can easily enter hallways, stairwells, or even rooms. This creates potential risks ranging from theft to personal harm.
Solution: Use keycard access controls and have trained security personnel monitor entrances, lobbies, and guest-only zones.
2. Theft – From Rooms, Lobbies, and Even Parking Lots
Theft is one of the most common issues hotels face. Whether it’s luggage stolen in the lobby or a car broken into in the parking garage, guests often hold the hotel responsible—even when it’s out of their control.
Solution: Visible security patrols, CCTV coverage, and on-call guards can deter would-be thieves and provide peace of mind to your guests.
3. Unruly or Intoxicated Guests
It happens more often than you’d think. Whether it’s wedding guests who had one too many drinks or someone causing a disturbance late at night, unruly behavior can quickly escalate and endanger other guests and staff.
Solution: Trained security guards can de-escalate situations and remove disruptive individuals quickly and professionally—protecting your reputation and your guests.
4. Vandalism and Property Damage
Hotels with high foot traffic—especially in cities like Chicago—are prime targets for vandalism or accidental damage. From graffiti on exterior walls to broken fixtures, these incidents cost money and time to repair.
Solution: Regular mobile patrols and proactive surveillance discourage property damage and help you respond quickly if something does happen.
5. Lack of Emergency Response Planning
Many hotels overlook the importance of having a clearly defined and practiced emergency response plan for incidents like fire, medical emergencies, or active threats. If your team doesn’t know what to do, the outcome can be disastrous.
Solution: Security professionals can help develop and rehearse emergency response procedures, ensuring staff knows exactly what to do when the unexpected happens.
6. Poor Surveillance and Blind Spots
Not all camera systems are created equal. Hotels with outdated or poorly placed surveillance often have blind spots where incidents can go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Solution: A security audit from experienced consultants can help you identify and fix these vulnerabilities. Coupled with on-site guards, you’ll dramatically reduce your risk.
7. Insufficient Security Staff During High-Traffic Times
Whether it’s check-in time, holidays, or major local events, hotels often don’t have enough security presence when they need it most. This leaves guests and staff vulnerable during peak hours.
Solution: Partnering with a reliable security company means you can scale your staffing during busy seasons or special events without scrambling last minute.
We’ve Been Securing Hotels Since 2005 – And We’re Just Getting Started
At Advanced Guards, we’ve been serving the hotel industry since 2005. We understand the unique needs of hospitality businesses, from maintaining a warm and welcoming environment to protecting guests from real-world threats. Our licensed and highly trained guards are professional, discreet, and equipped to handle any situation that arises.
We’re proud to be one of Chicago’s most trusted security providers, and we specialize in custom solutions that match your hotel’s size, budget, and clientele.
Let’s Make Your Hotel Safer – Starting Today
If you’re a hotel manager or owner in the Chicago area and you’re looking to tighten up your security—or build a plan from the ground up—we’re here to help.
✅ Armed and unarmed guards
✅ Mobile patrols
✅ Emergency response planning
✅ Concierge-style security services
✅ 24/7 staffing availability
Just give us a call to schedule a free consultation. At Advanced Guards, your guests’ safety is our priority—and your peace of mind is our promise.
