Installing, monitoring, and maintaining electronic security systems and alarms. Find active federal and state security systems services contracts — AI-scored against your profile across SAM.gov and 200+ portals.
Annual federal spend under NAICS 561621 is approximately $2-3 billion, driven by physical security upgrades across DoD, DHS, GSA, and civilian agencies. Demand is rising due to increased focus on access control, video surveillance, and intrusion detection. Contracts are predominantly IDIQs and BPAs, with many task orders issued under GSA Schedule 84 (Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, and Fire). Competition is intense, with hundreds of registered vendors. Agencies often bundle installation, monitoring, and maintenance into single awards. Set-asides for small businesses are common, especially under 8(a) and SDVOSB programs. The market is fragmented, with many local players but a few large integrators dominating.
These agencies are the largest buyers of security systems services services and products in the federal government. Each awards contracts under NAICS 561621 regularly — build relationships with their small business offices first.
To win, target GSA Schedule 84 SIN 246 54 (Security Systems Integration) as your primary vehicle. Most agency buyers start there for this NAICS. For set-asides, 8(a) and SDVOSB are the most common; HUBZone is rare. The highest-leverage move is to pursue a prime position on a DHS or DoD IDIQ (e.g., DHS Eagle or DoD ESIS) by partnering with a large integrator as a subcontractor to gain past performance. Also, obtain a facility clearance (FCL) at the Secret level—many security system contracts require it.
Most work is awarded via LPTA for lower-value, routine maintenance, and best-value tradeoff for complex integration. Common vehicles: GSA Schedule 84 (SIN 246 54), SEWP V (for IT-related security systems), 8(a) STARS III, and agency-specific IDIQs (e.g., DHS Eagle, DoD ESIS). Evaluations emphasize past performance, technical approach, and price. Security clearance and certifications are often pass/fail.
Most federal security systems contracts require a state-issued alarm contractor license (varies by state), and often a SECRET facility clearance. Additionally, certifications like NICET for fire alarms or manufacturer-specific (e.g., Honeywell, Bosch) can be mandatory. Ensure your company is registered in SAM and has a CAGE code.
Task orders range from $50,000 for small monitoring-only jobs to $10 million+ for large-scale integration projects at military bases or federal buildings. The median award is around $500,000. Many IDIQs have a $5-20 million ceiling over 5 years.
Yes, for contracts over $150,000, the Miller Act requires performance and payment bonds. Some agencies require bonds for smaller task orders as well. Surety bonds are typically 1-3% of contract value. Plan for bonding capacity early.
Very competitive. Over 3,000 small businesses are registered under this NAICS. However, set-asides (8(a), SDVOSB) reduce competition to 5-20 bidders per solicitation. Winning requires a strong past performance record and competitive pricing. Many small firms succeed as subcontractors to large primes.
Large primes often subcontract installation, monitoring, maintenance, and cybersecurity integration for access control systems. Subcontracting under a GSA Schedule holder or an 8(a) joint venture can build past performance. Focus on niche capabilities like biometrics or CCTV analytics to differentiate.