The Best Private Security in Morgantown, WV

In Morgantown, West Virginia, all private security personnel and companies must be licensed by the West Virginia Secretary of State's Private Investigator and Security Guard Licensing Board. Individual guards must complete 16 hours of training (8 classroom, 8 on-the-job), pass a criminal background check, and be at least 18 years old. Companies must also carry liability insurance. Morgantown-based firms often have additional familiarity with local ordinances, such as those related to noise control and event security in areas like the Downtown or Sunnyside neighborhoods, which is valuable for compliance.

In Morgantown, common security needs include residential patrols for neighborhoods like South Park or First Ward, especially during WVU student move-in/out periods or football game weekends when population density spikes. Commercial clients, such as downtown businesses, hospitals like WVU Medicine, and research facilities, often seek access control, asset protection, and overnight security. Given the mix of a university town and industrial presence, services specializing in crowd management, theft prevention for high-value equipment, and construction site security are particularly relevant and in demand locally.

WVU's large student population significantly impacts security needs in Morgantown. During major events like football games at Milan Puskar Stadium or festivals, there is a high demand for event security and crowd management. Landlords in student-heavy areas like the Sunnyside or Evansdale neighborhoods often hire security for property protection and to manage large parties. Additionally, security for student housing complexes, Greek life events, and campus-adjacent businesses is common. It's advisable to hire a firm experienced with the unique dynamics of a college town, including working alongside University Police when necessary.

When hiring in Morgantown, prioritize companies licensed by the state and with verifiable local experience. Look for firms familiar with specific challenges, such as securing properties in the downtown entertainment district or managing traffic and parking logistics for events at the WVU Coliseum. Check for positive references from other local businesses or residential communities. It's also wise to ensure they have clear protocols for coordinating with the Morgantown Police Department. While we cannot endorse specific companies, reputable local firms often advertise services tailored to the region's mix of university, healthcare, and residential needs. Always verify their license status directly with the state board.

Costs in Morgantown typically range from $25 to $50 per hour for an unarmed guard, with armed guards commanding higher rates. Key factors affecting price include the service type (static post vs. mobile patrol), duration (short-term event vs. long-term contract), level of risk (e.g., securing a construction site vs. residential check-ins), and required specialties like crowd control for a downtown festival. The time of year also matters; prices may increase during peak periods like WVU graduation or major sporting events due to higher demand. Always request detailed, written quotes that outline all services and confirm there are no hidden fees for travel within the Morgantown area.