Strengthening your on-site security system helps attract new tenants, while keeping your current tenants happy. Failure to provide quality security for your tenants can be detrimental to your business.

Potential and current customers are looking to rent a self-storage unit where they feel confident their family heirlooms or everyday items can be stored safely and securely knowing every precaution is taken to protect their precious items.

Unfortunately, break-ins, vandalism and false liability claims do occur. Installing or upgrading to a fully functioning security system, which is routinely maintained with monthly testing and preventive maintenance inspections yearly, can help deter these from happening.

Must haves for self-storage facilities:

1. A fully functioning monitored security system can help alert you of a break-in.
2. A video surveillance system with monitors in the office area and remote access can allow you to see your facility from anywhere. Make sure video is recorded in case there is a liability claim, vandalism or theft. Footage can be saved for short or extended periods of time, depending on the storage method you choose.
   • a.We know criminal incidents can be decreased with the visibility of cameras.  Thieves or vandals are looking for soft targets, most often without video surveillance.  
   • b.Today, camera software can be programmed to alert administrators when an incident happens, thus decreasing costs for continuous monitoring. 
   • c.If you own a facility with outdoor entrances to each unit and no fences around the property, using license plate cameras may be an excellent way to increase security.

1. If you’re using keys to enter the building and units, upgrading to an access control system can create a more secure environment. Administrators can download audit trails of who has been in the building, when they have been in the building and if the door has been propped open. 
   • If you’re already using access control, remember to remove outdated access codes. As soon as an employee leaves your employment, make sure their code is disabled. When a tenant no longer wishes to rent their unit, their code should be disabled the day they move out. 
   • Create temporary pass codes for contractors, vendors, landscapers, etc. and update codes regularly. Limit their access to the property or building to only the time of day, as well as the day of the week they need to enter.  

1. If your facility is using locks, make sure you are using master keyway locks for pedestrian doors or padlocks for overhead doors. It’s important to have a master keyway system designed for growth and changing needs along the way. With a master keyway you can easily access a unit at any time for any legal reason. 
2. Tenants expect there to be adequate environmental monitoring. Many items will be fine in a standard unit but items like papers, clothes, electronics, cars and antiques, need to have some form of environmental monitoring, including temperature and humidity for protection. If your facility is at ground level in a low area, water monitoring should also be included. Fire, smoke and CO detectors are standard for most storage facilities.
3. We cannot say enough about maintaining your system. Testing your system monthly ensures everything is in proper working order. Another is to have a yearly preventive maintenance inspection by a professional security company. By maintaining your system you can keep it in optimal working order for years to come.

Call One Source Security today to schedule an appointment to talk about your self-storage security needs, 800-570-6478.