Five Security Features Any Self Storage Facility Should Offer
When you need to use a self storage facility, you want to know your personal property will remain safe. Any reputable self storage facility will offer you certain types of protection. Without these safety features, you are placing your personal property at risk for damage, vandalism and theft.
You have to be aware that in some instances security requires a small inconvenience to you. For example, you may have to enter a code at the gate to get into the facility instead of just being able to drive in. You should be prepared to sacrifice quick access to your personal property if it means that the self storage facility has implemented security features that ensure the security of your personal property.
When you are shopping around for a self storage facility, there are five specific security features you want to look for. These five features will help you realize how much the facility is trying to keep your property safe. You'll be able to leave your possessions there in good conscience, knowing the facility is doing all it can to keep the storage units safe and secure.
The first feature you want to see at a potential self storage facility is a locked unit for your possessions. It can have either a padlock or a code pad. Never choose a facility with open units, even if the gate is locked. Always choose a facility where each individual unit is locked so others cannot access it without either a code or a key.
The second security feature you want your self storage unit facility to have is a locked gate. The gate should feature a key code entry. This helps ensure that nobody can get into the facility without the key code. Unlocked gates leave the units open for vandalism or break ins. It is much easier for someone to break into individual units if there is no locked gate around the whole facility.
The third security feature you need is strong overall fencing and good lighting. A strong fence keeps people out and prevents jumping over the fence to access the units. Lighting is a good deterrent for would be thieves. A well lit area is less likely to suffer from vandals or thefts than an area that is not well lit. You should make sure to visit your unit after dark to ensure that your particular unit is well lit and that lighting is not limited to just the front of the facility.
Fourth, you want to see if the storage facility offers video camera surveillance. Ask and make sure these are real, operating cameras and not just dummies. If something is stolen or vandalized, having video evidence may help you get your property back. Just having video surveillance is also a great deterrent.
The last feature you want to see at a self storage facility is an onsite manager. Security guards are a useful touch, too. Having someone live on the premises is one of the best ways to deter theft and vandalism. They are always there to watch over the units and if someone does break in, they can be caught and the damage or theft can be prevented.
Having good security is very important at self storage facilities. Open storage units are frequently targets for vandals and thieves. You'll notice when you sign the storage contract that you are relieving the facility of all liability in case your property is stolen or damaged. This means if something happens, they do not need to compensate you. By doing your homework and choosing a facility with proper security measures in force, you are doing all you can to protect your property.
About the author: Kurt Novak is a full time real estate investor, entrepreneur and owner of a Columbus storage facility. Find great self storage tips at the Columbus Self Storage Blog.
