Guide to self-storage security systems and solutions

What is self-storage security?

Self-storage security refers to the technologies and services utilized by storage unit owners to protect facilities and tenant-owned property from theft and damage. Effective storage unit security security solutions include camera systems, alarm installations and access control systems used to ward off intruders, identify common threats and collect evidence for use in later investigations.

Who benefits from storage unit security?

Developing self-storage security systems benefits facility owners and hired security teams by deterring criminality, which in turn can reduce insurance costs and help stakeholders avoid legal issues. Operating self-storage alarm systems, access solutions and CCTV installations may also attract more tenants by demonstrating a commitment to on-premises physical security.

How do self-storage security solutions work?

Self-storage security systems will usually include a combination of environmental access control features like fences and gates to limit exposed entry points, alongside intelligent security technologies like self-storage security cameras, access readers and alarms. These self-storage security guard replacement systems will often utilize integrated technologies, resulting in enhanced awareness and security. 

For example, access readers installed at main entrances may be connected to CCTV cameras. If a failed access attempt is made, cameras can be programmed to flag footage of the incident and activate on-site alarms, with security staff notified in real-time via cloud management tools.

Installed storage security systems will be managed by facility managers or by hired commercial security professionals, either of whom will be tasked with monitoring activity on-site or remotely. 

The importance of security for storage units 

First and foremost, self-storage security is important to prevent break-ins, theft and property damage. Alongside protecting people from physical harm, self-storage security systems help facility owners avoid legal issues and liability claims related to lost or damaged assets which can lead to higher insurance premiums.

Additionally, well-implemented storage facility security systems demonstrate a commitment to security on behalf of facility owners, indicating to businesses that their property will be suitably protected from common threats. In the event of an incident, effective storage security systems can also provide essential evidence that can be used to catch offenders and improve policies. 

Common security risks & challenges for storage units

• Multiple access points: As most storage facilities have multiple access points, they can be more vulnerable to intrusion events than typical commercial properties. If just one window or door is left unsecured, security for the storage units is compromised and intruders may gain access, meaning risk assessments must be performed to ensure all possible entrances remain secured.
• Risk of theft: Storage facilities contain large numbers of individual units, each of which could contain numerous high-value items. This means targeting storage facilities may be viewed as a lucrative opportunity for would-be criminals. 
• Customer asset liabilities: Owners and operators are responsible for individual tenants’ property while it’s stored on-site. If theft or damage occurs, the owner or operator is liable for any material or financial loss to the tenant. They may also be liable for negligence if adequate self-storage security solutions were not in place. 
• Insurance costs: If frequent break-ins occur, insurance providers may impose higher premiums or reduce levels of coverage. Conversely, upgrading storage unit security systems can indicate a reduced level of risk and help to decrease insurance premiums. 
• Convenience for tenants: Tenants want convenient access to storage units when required. That means measures must strike a balance between security for storage units and convenience for authorized users. 

Features to look for in a self-storage security solution 

Access control systems 

Access control systems are a critical component of storage facility security, enabling teams to monitor and manage access to the main facility and individual storage units. Access readers can be installed at entry gates, reception areas and entrances to individual units, with tenants and employees issued personalized credentials granting access to select locations.

At external access points, visitors or authorized users may present physical credentials like key cards or fobs to an installed reader. Requests will be analyzed by an internal computer system, with presented credentials checked against a database of authorized users. If the credentials are accepted, access will be granted and the event will be logged to support auditing processes.

Individual units may be secured using simple keypad readers, with tenants asked to input a PIN code to gain access. Advanced storage unit security systems may instead choose to operate mobile credential systems, with personalized credentials stored and managed on the user’s smart device. These self-storage security solutions can be particularly effective as permissions can be adjusted remotely and time-based credentials can be created for temporary visitors.

Video surveillance cameras

IP surveillance cameras deployed as part of a self-storage security solution will be used to detect and record suspicious activity in high-risk areas of the facility. Live feeds can be monitored from an on-site control room, or remotely from secure smart devices if cloud-based management systems are in operation. Systems can also be programmed to alert teams of suspicious activity automatically or engage wider security devices if integrated self-storage security systems are developed.

Security cameras can be a viable on-site replacement for a self-storage security guard team. These cameras can be the eyes on-site while security professionals remain in a remote control center where they can respond to threat alerts. As a result, fewer security guards are needed which helps to reduce the self-storage security cost.

To provide effective surveillance, security cameras must be correctly positioned to cover vulnerable areas. Some cameras offer wide angles of view, which enables them to cover large areas, while other types have long-distance or close-up capability for specific use-cases. Depending on their location, cameras may require good protection against environmental conditions or effective night-vision capabilities, enabling security staff to provide 24/7 protection.

Intrusion detection systems

Physical intrusion detection systems and alarms provide vital notifications as part of comprehensive self-storage security. Specialized motion, pressure and sound sensors can be fixed to doors, windows and similar access points, with systems programmed to activate alarms and notify security teams remotely of suspicious activity. Further integrations may be developed in advanced storage facility security systems to automatically trigger nearby cameras and locks.

Perimeter security systems for storage units

Perimeter security systems represent the first line of defense in storage facility security, taking the form of physical barriers like self-storage fencing and gates as well as security technologies.

Surveillance cameras and motion detectors may be installed to cover building perimeters and exterior access points, with gate access control systems used to restrict vehicular access.

Perimeter security solutions are most effective when the deterrents are obvious. For example, things like razor wire, bullet security cameras and floodlights act as clear visual indicators that the property is protected by monitored security systems and/​​or physical security personnel.

Best practices for self-storage security

Security assessment 

Before selecting equipment for self-storage security installations, it’s essential to carry out a detailed physical security risk assessment of the facility to highlight unique security requirements. Teams should identify all potential access points, vulnerabilities and possible gaps in existing security plans, as well as consider how systems may be maintained and scaled in the future.

It may be wise to consult security professionals to help carry out these assessments, detailed plans and recommendations regarding the most effective security measures.

Implementation 

While owners and operators can carry out the installation of storage unit security systems, it’s advisable to hire trained installation teams to perform this task. Commercial security installers and integration specialists can help teams configure systems around unique security requirements. This ensures surveillance cameras, intrusion detection systems and access solutions can be optimized and integrated to provide the highest level of security protection. 

Management 

Owners must decide whether to manage self-storage security systems themselves or hire a dedicated security team to handle ongoing monitoring and management responsibilities. While it may seem cost-effective to self-manage active solutions, hired security professionals will be able to offer 24/7 coverage and appropriate incident responses should a security breach occur.

Maintenance 

Storage facility security systems must be maintained regularly to ensure all devices are working as intended and remain free from obstructions or potential vulnerabilities. This includes cleaning cameras, replacing batteries where required and updating relevant software programs. Maintenance procedures should be regularly scheduled and performed by security professionals.

Legal/​regulatory requirements

Owners and operators are responsible for the security of any property stored in their facility. If property is stolen or damaged, operators may be liable to cover associated costs. Owners may also be liable for charges of negligence if inadequate storage unit security systems are found to be responsible for security breaches.

In addition, owners must comply with data privacy regulations. Surveillance footage must only be retained for short periods and stored securely to prevent any breaches of customers’ privacy.

Conclusion

Self-storage security is vital to help ensure that a tenant’s property is stored safely. A storage facility with effective security helps to attract more customers and can lead to lower insurance policies. A well-designed and easily monitored storage unit security system can also help self-storage security guards perform their duties more efficiently, enabling teams to monitor key areas remotely and receive real-time alerts warning of suspicious activity.

To ensure storage unit security systems provide the highest level of protection, it’s wise to consult professional security system installers and security integrators. Experts can help internal teams develop bespoke solutions capable of being optimized and enhanced to meet changing needs.

With the information included in this guide, stakeholders should be able to develop and maintain effective self-storage security systems, as well as identify facilities that operate reliable security solutions that help to protect valuable assets from common threats.