Security for California property management companies: how to find them and what to ask

Finding registered property management companies in California

In California, property management companies that lease, rent, or collect rent on behalf of others generally operate under a real estate broker license issued by the Department of Real Estate (DRE). There is no single public list of "every" property management company, but the official DRE license lookup lets you verify any company or individual by name, city, or license number before you work with them.

We do not publish a scraped directory of companies here, because such lists go out of date quickly and can misrepresent businesses. Instead, use the official DRE search linked below, confirm the license is current and in good standing, and check that the company actually manages properties in your city.

What to ask a property management company about security

Ask how the company handles after-hours incidents, who responds to alarms, how common-area patrol is documented, and whether security costs are passed through to owners or included in management fees. A good manager can show you sample incident reports and explain their vendor selection process.

If you are a property manager yourself, your owners and residents will ask you the same questions. Having a documented security program—defined patrol checkpoints, verified licensing, and reviewable reports—makes those conversations much easier.

How APS works with property managers

APS partners with property management companies across California for on-site security guards, HOA and apartment patrol, mobile patrol, front-desk concierge, and event coverage. We prepare a custom proposal for each property with pricing shared privately, and our reports give managers documentation they can forward to owners and boards.

Whether you manage one building or a statewide portfolio, contact us with your property list, cities, and coverage needs. We will confirm availability and prepare a proposal for each site. For emergencies, always call 911 first.

Your practical checklist

• Verify any property management company through the official DRE license lookup.
• Ask about after-hours response, patrol documentation, and security cost structure.
• Compare security providers against the same written scope.
• Contact APS for a custom proposal covering your managed properties.