As one of, if not the main component of self-storage facilities, security is extremely important in order to protect and preserve the goods and items of your customers. It is not an expense to be frugal about, as doing so would put your customers’ personal belongings at risk, as well as the reputation of your facility. With that said, it can be daunting when choosing between the various security systems available, but there are steps you can take in order to find the most effective.
As I have mentioned in previous blogs, studying the competition is an extremely effective way to stay up to speed with the latest and greatest in your industry. Let’s say self-storage businesses in your area all have a common theme of high-security facilities. There may be a good reason why this is, so be sure to match their level of security within your own facility. Certain areas could have higher crime rates than others.
Similarly, keeping up with your competitors is important for just that: competition. High-tech features like digital access through keypads should be a standard if other facilities in your area have the same. Being behind in terms of convenience in the self-storage industry is a recipe for failure, so keep up with the latest trends in your area lest you want your business to fail.
Certain gates, for example, can be more effective for some facilities, but less for others. Those with arm barriers are very minimal in terms of security. Though vehicles are unable to pass, someone on foot can easily walk under this type of gate. Swing gates and slide gates however, would pose more of a problem for intruders on foot.
Research security system providers to find the one that best suits your self-storage facility. Companies like PTI Security Systems specialize in commercial property security, and are great for new facilities that are still in the early stages of development. Cameras, access panels, motion sensors, and automatic locks are some of many items that should all be included in your facility for optimal security.
It is important to note that the more products you invest in, the more expensive it obviously becomes. You may not need every single product out there depending on the location and its respective crime rates, though it is better to be as safe as possible. Assess the needs of your specific facility. An alarm system, motion-activated lights, and backup generator in the event of a power outage are all great assets to have, but more expendable devices and systems like Siri-type voice command are much more expendable.
Security is a crucial aspect of self-storage that all owners must take very seriously. When choosing a security system for your storage facility, take all things into consideration, and be sure to keep the customer in mind.
