7 Must-Have Storage Facility Security Solutions in 2024

As a self storage facility manager in the UK or any other location, you’re undoubtedly familiar with the complexity and cost of running a successful self storage business. A key challenge is maintaining the security and safety of your customers’ stored valuables and possessions. This guide explores seven must-have storage facility security solutions and why they’re necessary.

For one, employing suitable security solutions offers peace of mind to run your business securely and reliably. However, managing multiple locations can get tricky, so we’ll also discuss how Storeganise’s cutting-edge software can make security more efficient. With these solutions, you can be sure of increasing safety levels with minimum hassle.

1. Perimeter Security: Installing High Fencing and CCTV Cameras

Perimeter security should be your top priority for keeping your storage facility secure. Installing barriers such as high fencing and CCTV cameras will deter potential intruders, acting as an early warning system in the event of a security breach. For extra protection, you can opt for motion-activated lighting systems to alert you of any unauthorised activity and notify the police.

When choosing the right type of fence, consider using approved fencing material for storage facilities in the UK. This typically ranges from two to four metres high, depending on the level of security you need. Also, use reinforced materials such as steel, which is more difficult to scale or penetrate.

Finally, don’t forget about the advantages of surveillance cameras, which can provide extra protection by recording 24/7 footage with audio evidence in case of an incident.

2. Access Control: Using Electronic Gate Systems and Keypads

To keep your self storage secure, it’s essential to ensure that only people with authorised access to the premises enter. The best way of doing that is with an access control system —an electronic gate system or keypad access—installed at the entrance of your storage facility. In fact, the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) reports that 85% of its members use an access control system.

An electronic gate system can only be opened by a designated code or card, meaning you can control exactly who’s entering and monitor access times — this makes it less likely for unauthorised people to get onto the property. Alternatively, if you don’t need too much storage facility security, keypad access will suffice. By issuing customers a code, you can control their access to your self storage facility and check when they enter and leave.

3. On-Site Security Staff: Hiring 24-Hour Guards for Large Facilities

If you’re looking for an added layer of storage facility security, consider hiring on-site security staff. This is particularly important for more extensive facilities open for business 24 hours a day. After all, your facility holds assets of great value and ensuring round-the-clock security is the best way to ensure nothing goes wrong.

Your security staff should be licensed per UK law and have the necessary training to handle any situation that might arise.

There are several responsibilities that your staff will need to manage, including the following:

- Regular check-ins on the premises

- Monitoring alarms or other surveillance systems

- Safety checks on tenants entering or exiting the facility

- Ensuring access control measures are in place

- Managing and monitoring CCTV cameras and recording footage

Having on-site security staff can also help you save costs associated with repairs and replacements since it allows you to monitor any damage or tampering in real-time. And with Storeganise self storage software, you can easily track guard patrol data and access logs for each tenant, so you know who has used the secure storage facility and when.

4. Individual Unit Alarms: Installing Motion-Activated Alarms for Each Unit

For enhanced self storage security solutions for each storage unit, motion-activated alarms are an ideal solution. Installing motion sensors typically notifies/alerts you when someone is detected in one of your units.

While you could easily set up these alarms, investing in a professional installation is advised. That way, you know all the wiring is correct, and the system will trigger appropriately when any movement is detected.

When choosing alarm systems for individual units, consider either wired or wireless systems. Although many UK suppliers offer both options, wireless systems are much easier to install and respond much quicker than their wired counterparts.

Finally, make sure you choose a system with user-friendly control panels which allow you to adjust settings easily and review activity logs whenever required. You should also get somebody to check the status of your system regularly — doing so can help you avoid any costly repairs down the line.

5. Secure Locks: Using High-Security Disk or Padlocks for Each Unit

When it comes to locks, the better storage facility security you provide, the safer your customers’ belongings will be. High-security locks such as discs and padlocks are a great way to ensure ultimate protection. For those in the UK, we recommend the British Standard 3621 for all self storage facilities — and you should look for a lock that meets this standard.

You can find a wide range of locks that meet British Standard 3621, including the following:

1. Padlocks: Whether a combination or keyed version, these are strong and durable options in various shapes and sizes.
2. Disc locks: These are among the most advanced locks available in the UK; they require interlocking disks that only specific keys can unlock.
3. Laminated padlocks: These also have multiple components and are hard to pry open but can be opened with specific special keys if needed in an emergency.
4. Keyed alike padlocks: For more extensive facilities, you may need various padlocks with identical keys so customers don’t have to carry multiple sets of keys for their units.

6. Insurance and Legal Protection: Getting the Right Coverage and Contracts in Place

The right insurance can provide security to you as a storage facility owner and your customers. It’s a critical part of any high-security storage facility risk management plan and helps to ensure that you’re financially protected should incidents occur.

Most storage facilities in the UK have combined policies covering third-party insurance, public liability and product liability insurance. Depending on the size and type of facility, additional cover may be required for theft from locked units, machinery, computer equipment or records.

When reviewing storage facility insurance policies, ensure the coverage meets your business’s specific requirements, including any legal agreements between management and tenants. A comprehensive agreement should include clauses that protect both parties in case of loss or damage due to theft, fire or other events beyond their control.

7. Storeganise as an Extra Storage Facility Security Measure

Additionally, having a centralised area to manage your storage facilities across multiple locations is paramount for peace of mind — something Storeganise can help with! Our revolutionary self storage software is tailored to give you the flexibility to successfully run your self storage business remotely.

This fully encrypted, cloud-hosted software enables you to receive contactless online bookings, automate billings, and even monitor customer access into and out of storage units.

The Importance of Security Measures for Storage Facilities

Understanding how to secure your facility may make you wonder if it’s necessary. Yes, it is, especially considering how often storage units get broken into.

Outlined below are why you should take security seriously for your storage facility:

1. Protection of Customers’ Belongings

Storage facilities are entrusted with safeguarding customers’ valuable and often irreplaceable possessions. Implementing robust security measures is essential to safeguard these belongings from theft, damage, or unauthorised access.

2. Customer Satisfaction and Peace of Mind

By providing a secure storage environment, you can instil confidence in your customers. Knowing that their items are well-protected gives customers peace of mind, which is crucial for customer satisfaction and retention.

3. Legal and Regulatory Requirements

In the UK or any other location, storage facilities are subject to legal and regulatory requirements concerning security. Compliance with these regulations is necessary to ensure the facility’s operations are lawful and to avoid penalties or legal issues.

4. Prevention of Theft and Unauthorised Access

Storage facilities can be tempting targets for thieves or unauthorised individuals looking to exploit vulnerabilities. Hence, adequate storage facility security measures, such as fencing, access control systems, and surveillance, act as deterrents and significantly reduce the risk of theft or unauthorised entry.

5. Reduction of Liability

Implementing comprehensive security measures helps to minimise the facility owner’s liability. Adequate security measures demonstrate a commitment to protecting customers’ belongings, reducing the likelihood of claims related to theft or damage.

6. Maintenance of Facility Reputation

A storage facility’s reputation is vital for attracting and retaining customers. A facility known for its strong security measures and safe storage environment will gain a positive reputation, attracting more customers via its self storage marketing activities and enhancing its market position.

7. Prevention of Vandalism and Damage

Storage facility security measures deter theft and help prevent vandalism and damage to stored items. Proper surveillance, access control, and on-site security can significantly reduce the risk of deliberate damage or tampering.

8. Emergency Response Preparedness

Robust security measures also contribute to emergency response preparedness. Surveillance systems and alarms can help detect and respond to incidents promptly, ensuring the safety of customers and staff in case of emergencies like fires or break-ins.

Wrapping It Up

With this comprehensive guide, self storage facility owners in the UK and any other location can now access some of the most advanced solutions available regarding storage facility security. Now, more than ever, you can select the right combination of measures that will best suit your unique location and services.

There’s a solution for any facility size, from CCTV and access control systems to motion sensors, safe locks, and storage unit security systems. Security is no longer an afterthought but a key factor for success in the self storage industry. And with Storeganise, you can afford an extra layer of security, allowing you to manage and monitor your storage facility operations and security quickly, safely, and remotely.

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