Implementing storage facility security systems helps prevent theft and enhance customer trust.
Whether moving to a new home or just needing a place to stash holiday decorations, storage facilities are a convenient solution for keeping your belongings safe.
Storage units see their fair share of the unexpected, from family heirlooms to forgotten treasures, and yes, even the occasional bizarre—or even gruesome—discovery, like the Lancaster County, PA, unit which was found housing a crocodile, or the New York unit filled with dead cats.
Unfortunately, these facilities also see their fair share of crime. From large-scale burglaries to insider theft, storage units face multiple security risks. In this article, we’ll explore why storage facilities are common targets, the types of theft that occur there, and how implementing storage facility security systems can help minimize risks.
Storage facilities are commonly targeted by criminals. One investigation in California found that in just two years, 56 break-ins occurred across 38 storage facilities. But why are storage units such an appealing target for thieves? Here are some of the key reasons.
Storage facilities typically have dozens of renters coming and going around the clock. This makes it easier for criminals to blend in, especially during busy hours. Someone walking purposefully with a moving dolly rarely raises suspicion, even if they're not a legitimate tenant.
Storage facilities often store high-value items, making them appealing targets for criminals. One example is a Union County man who stole more than $150,000 worth of valuables from multiple storage units. Another example is Christopher Cline, who lost his prized video game collection worth approximately $65,000 when thieves broke into his unit, ransacked it, and even replaced the lock before leaving.
Unlike homes or businesses that typically have regular occupants, storage units are often left unattended for extended periods. Tenants may go weeks or months without checking on their belongings. This lack of frequent supervision means that theft can go unnoticed for an extended time, giving criminals ample opportunity to break in, remove items, and get away without immediate detection.
Many storage facilities are designed for customer convenience, featuring multiple entrances, exits, and drive-up units. While these features make access easier for renters, they also create multiple vulnerabilities. Without proper surveillance or monitoring at all access points, criminals can exploit weak spots to slip in and out unnoticed.
Not all security threats come from the outside. Employees or individuals with insider knowledge of facility operations can pose a significant risk, either by directly stealing from units or providing information to criminals about which ones contain valuable items.
By implementing a combination of strategic security measures, facility owners can better protect tenants’ belongings and deter unwanted activity. Here are some solutions and features to consider.
By restricting entry to authorized individuals, access control systems prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of theft. These solutions may include:
Physical security staff can't be everywhere at once, but remote monitoring systems can. LVT’s mobile security solutions allow personnel to keep an eye on every corner of the facility from a central location—or even from a mobile device. High-definition cameras with night vision capabilities provide clear video footage 24/7, and AI-powered analytics can help identify suspicious behavior, such as someone lingering too long near units.
Motion-activated deterrent lights are an effective way to prevent theft—no criminal wants to be caught, and good lighting makes their chances of being seen significantly higher. With LVT® Units, your security lights can be controlled directly from the LVT® Platform, so no matter where you are in the world you can get rid of the shadows on your property and ensure criminals have no place to hide.
Knowing that something went wrong at your facility isn’t super helpful if you find out days after the fact. LVT’s storage security systems send you instant alerts, so you know the second something takes a turn for the worst. These systems can even send alerts to third-party monitoring services or law enforcement. This allows for rapid responses, minimizes damage, and increases the chances of apprehending suspects.
In addition to the obvious reduction of crime, investing in storage security systems offers numerous benefits for both facility operators and customers. Here are some of the most significant advantages.
Customers trust storage facilities to protect their valuable property. By making your facility more secure, you demonstrate your commitment to safety, which fosters trust and loyalty among clients and can give you a significant competitive edge.
Theft can result in substantial financial losses for both customers and facility operators. Security systems minimize these risks by preventing unauthorized access and providing evidence to recover stolen items.
Many storage facilities are required to meet specific security standards to operate legally. Security systems can help facility owners comply with these regulations and avoid legal issues. You may even find that your facility qualifies for lower insurance premiums after upping your security game, as you’ll be considered a lower-risk property.
Without 24/7 oversight, your facility could be vulnerable to theft, damage, and more. A continuous monitoring solution with advanced features like deterrent lighting, instant alerts, and more, is the key to prevention.
Ready to protect your customers’ belongings, maintain your facility’s reputation, and stay one step ahead of criminals? Request a demo today and see how LVT can help you create a safer, more secure storage environment.
