Frequently asked questions

Answers about how ParkSentinel works.

Here are some of the most common questions from site owners and Sentinels. If you’d like to ask something specific about your site or situation, you can always get in touch and we’ll reply directly.

For site owners & managers

What exactly does ParkSentinel provide?

ParkSentinel provides overnight site presence. A trusted Sentinel stays in their van on your property overnight so the site looks active, occupied and monitored. ParkSentinel vans are also equipped with motion-activated security lighting and motion-detection CCTV recording, adding an extra visible deterrent around the site or property and immediate surrounding area.

Is this the same as hiring a security guard?

No. ParkSentinel is a presence-based deterrent service, not a manned guarding company. Sentinels provide visible overnight presence, site awareness and light reporting of anything unusual, but they are not deployed as security guards or enforcement.

Do ParkSentinel vans have cameras and lighting?

Yes. ParkSentinel vans are equipped with motion-activated security lighting and motion-detection CCTV recording. These features help strengthen the visible deterrent and can help capture unusual activity around the site or property during the shift.

Do Sentinels confront intruders?

Sentinels are expected to act sensibly and safely at all times. They are not there to get into confrontations. If they see something of concern, they can follow the reporting steps agreed with you in advance, for example contacting you and/or the police, while prioritising their own safety.

What does a typical night look like?

The Sentinel arrives in the evening, parks where you’ve requested, and settles in for the agreed shift. Their visible presence alone helps make the site look occupied. If movement occurs around the site or property, the security lighting and motion-detection CCTV can add an extra deterrent and record activity. In the morning, the Sentinel leaves by the agreed time.

How much does it cost?

As a guide, typical overnight cover starts from £60 per night, per Sentinel, per site. This can vary depending on location, timings and specific requirements, and is confirmed when you enquire.

Can I have more than one Sentinel on the same site?

Yes. Some larger or higher-risk sites choose to have two Sentinels so different areas are more clearly covered. Pricing is per Sentinel per night, and multi-Sentinel options are arranged case by case.

What kinds of sites does ParkSentinel cover?

Common examples include farms and machinery storage, industrial units and small estates, construction compounds, vehicle yards, storage areas and vacant properties awaiting sale or works.

Do I have to book every night?

No. Many businesses book ParkSentinel only for particular nights of concern, or as a block of nights during higher-risk periods. You pay for the nights you use, rather than signing up to a long contract.

How much notice do you need?

More notice is always better, especially if you want ongoing cover, but we’ll always check availability for short-notice or one-off nights. When you enquire, we’ll confirm what’s realistic for your site.

How do I get started?

You can visit the For Businesses page to see how it works and make contact. We’ll ask for basic details about the site and the sort of cover you’re looking for, then confirm availability and price before anything is booked.

For Sentinels

What is expected from a Sentinel on shift?

As a Sentinel, you park your van on the client’s site for the agreed hours, keep a visible presence and remain aware of activity on and immediately around the site. You follow the agreed reporting steps if something looks wrong and prioritise your own safety at all times.

What equipment is used on shift?

ParkSentinel vans are equipped with motion-activated security lighting and motion-detection CCTV recording. These help strengthen the visible deterrent and increase awareness of movement around the site/property during the shift.

Is this a security guard job?

No. You are not working as a security guard, bouncer or enforcement role. You are there to help make the site look occupied and monitored, and to use common sense if anything unusual happens. Your safety always comes first.

How are Sentinels paid?

Each shift has a set rate agreed in advance. Sentinels are typically paid per night covered. More detail is given on the Become a Sentinel page when you apply.

Can Sentinels bring family members or pets?

This depends on the specific site and what has been agreed with the site owner. Some sites may be happy with a partner or dog being present, while others may have restrictions. Any conditions are discussed before a shift is confirmed.

What if I feel unsafe on a site?

Your safety comes first. If you ever feel unsafe, you should prioritise your own safety, remove yourself from risk where possible and contact the appropriate people, for example emergency services and the ParkSentinel/site contact. You’re not expected to intervene physically.

How do I become a Sentinel?

Visit the Become a Sentinel page and complete the application form. We ask for details about you, your van, the areas you can cover and the kind of shifts you’re interested in. When suitable sites come up, we’ll be in touch.

Still not sure if ParkSentinel fits your site or situation? A quick message or call is often the easiest way to find out — we’ll be honest if it’s not the right match.