Tennessee's Independent Security Company Reviews
Practical information for property managers, business owners, and security professionals
Company coverage
Company Profiles
Legacy ratings shown below are under editorial review; they are not verified customer scores or current service certifications. Read our editorial policy.
Walden Security
$$$Chattanooga-based Walden Security has grown from a one-man operation into a 5,000-employee regional force covering the Southeast US and Puerto Rico. Their training program wins awards. Their Memphis operation handles West Tennessee.
Shield of Steel
$$Veteran-owned Shield of Steel has protected Tennessee businesses since 1998. Read our detailed review covering armed guards, GPS patrols, pricing, and statewide coverage from Memphis to Knoxville.
Phelps Security
$$$Family-owned since 1953, Phelps Security is the longest-running independent guard company in Memphis. They charge a premium and they earn it. Coverage stays within greater Memphis.
Clarion Security
$$Memphis-headquartered award-winning security firm at 1780 Moriah Woods Blvd. Known for rigorous guard training, low turnover, and technology-forward approach.
Blackstone Security
$$Nashville-based veteran-owned security firm with operations since 1993. Specializes in corporate, government, and high-value asset protection throughout Tennessee.
From the editors
Latest Articles
Atlantic Hurricane Season: An Inland Tennessee Property Drill
Test weather alerts, remote sites, access controls, fuel and vendors at inland Tennessee properties before tropical systems disrupt routine operations.
Tennessee DCS Security RFP Puts 70 of 100 Points Beyond Price
Tennessee's DCS security RFP sets two-hour replacement, six-hour response and youth-site training rules. See what bidders and security buyers should verify.
TDOT Truck-Parking Sensor Pilot: What Statewide Scale Must Prove
TDOT is comparing four truck-parking sensor methods before possible statewide scaling. Security buyers should watch accuracy, retention and system access.
How to Read Tennessee's Marina Inspection Tracker
Use Tennessee's marina inspection tracker without treating a dated result as a current safety rating, business status, or permission to swim near a marina.
TBI Message-Switch RFI Asks About AI-Written Code Under CJIS Demands
TBI's message-switch RFI asks vendors about AI-written code, 288 interfaces and CJIS controls. See what a serious response must settle by September 30.
Tennessee Access Control: Check the Exit Before Buying the Lock
A Tennessee buyer's guide to access-control projects: define each door, protect exit routes, include accessibility, and require a documented acceptance test.
Free resources
Guides and Checklists
Commercial Property Security RFP Template
Complete RFP template for hiring commercial property security. Includes evaluation criteria, scoring methodology, and contract terms.
Download freeThe Complete Guide to Hiring a Security Company
A comprehensive 30-page playbook covering needs assessment, vendor evaluation, contract negotiation, and ongoing management of security service providers.
Download freeMemphis vs Nashville Security Companies: 2026 Comparison Guide
Side-by-side comparison of leading security companies in Memphis and Nashville. Services, pricing, coverage areas, and specialties for 2026.
Download freeSubscribe to the Tennessee Security Briefing
Read the latest security industry news and practical hiring guides.