No Trespassing: Riverside and DAWGS Strengthen Property Security

The Riverside Company, a global investment firm focused on the smaller end of the middle market, has invested in Door & Window Guard Systems (DAWGS), a premier provider of door and window guards designed to secure vacant properties. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, DAWGS protects thousands of residential, commercial and government-owned properties across the U.S.

The company’s patented security solutions provide superior protection compared to alternatives, preventing unauthorized entry, property damage and safety hazards.

“DAWGS has become a market leader in vacant property security, and we see an opportunity to build on the company’s strong foundation,” said Co-Chief Investment Officer for Riverside’s Capital Appreciation strategy (RCAF) Brad Roberts. “We look forward to working with the DAWGS team to accelerate growth by investing in sales and marketing initiatives to broaden its customer base and expand into new geographies.”

DAWGS’ attractive business model combines installation services with a recurring monthly rental revenue stream, and it offers property owners a cost-effective and highly secure solution.

“The company’s subscription revenue model, strong customer retention and market expansion opportunities make DAWGS a highly attractive investment,” said RCAF Principal Harrison Petts. “We look forward to working with the team to build on their success and scale the business to new heights.”

This is the latest example of Riverside’s commitment to its Safety, Security, Compliance and Risk Mitigation (SSCRM) investment thesis. Riverside has invested in more than 280 platform and add-on companies in the SSCRM sector since 1988 as part of its private equity and structured capital strategies.

Riverside will partner with DAWGS’ current management team, who will remain with the business, to drive key growth initiatives.

“We are excited to partner with Riverside as we embark on this next chapter,” said DAWGS CEO Nick Oberhouse. “Their deep experience and expertise in scaling specialty service businesses will be invaluable as we expand our footprint and continue providing industry-leading security solutions to our customers.”

Working with Roberts and Petts on this deal for Riverside were Principal Matthew Erbe, Senior Associate Armando Torres and Associate Hyer Thomas. The investment was originated by Regional Director, Origination, David Fowles, and Senior Partner Anne Hayes secured the financing. The co-investment syndicate was led by Partners Capital, and other Riverside LPs invested.