Have you got questions about the risks of using self-storage? Or are you concerned about securing your stored goods? Here are some steps you can take to ensure your goods stay safe and secure in self-storage.
Choose a reputable storage company with the right level of security
Self-storage firms have different levels of security – for example, some might have 24/7 staffing or enhanced surveillance, alarms and high-security locks.
You’ll pay extra for certain security features, and depending on the value of your stored goods, you may feel that 24/7 security patrols is overkill. But these are some features you should look out for:
- clean and tidy site that is inspected regularly
- staffing levels that feel right
- secure perimeter and access control
- fire safety
- lighting that works
It’s better to pick a storage company that has a clean and tidy site that is obviously checked and inspected regularly. Piles of debris can hide signs of vermin or damage to storage structures. They can also be a fire hazard, and they might be a danger to people (that is, you) using the site. Storage companies that regularly inspect their property will keep on top of damage and maintenance, ensuring your goods are safe.
Ask when the site is staffed, and decide if it matches up with when you wish to access your storage, particularly if you prefer to know there’s someone on site when you’re putting things into your unit or taking them out.
A secure perimeter ensures that the storage site can only be accessed by the right people. Broken fences might suggest the company has issues maintaining the site. Gates and doors that stick could trap you on site, or stop you getting to your stuff.
Although you’ll be insured against fire damage to your stored goods, obviously you’d prefer to avoid the hassle. So keep an eye on your storage company’s fire safety. Find out if it has sprinklers. Look out for alarms that seem out of order, fire doors that are propped open and fire fighting equipment that is broken or neglected. A lack of attention to detail in fire safety can often indicate a lack of care in other areas, too.
Visiting the storage site at dusk can tell you whether the lighting is appropriate. Is your storage unit going to be difficult to use on a winter evening because the lighting is poorly designed or broken? Do you need a light within your storage unit? And, also, do you feel safe using the site?
Some storage companies belong to the Self Storage Association . This is a trade organisation that represents its members’ interests, rather than the interests of the consumer.
Ways to improve the security of your storage unit
Improve the security of your storage unit by:
- keeping an inventory
- using good quality locks
- labelling boxes with care
- insuring your stored goods
An inventory of stored goods will help you to quickly work out if anything has gone missing from your unit.
If you have to supply a padlock for your storage unit, make it a good quality one.
Labelling boxes with codes linked to your inventory, rather than the actual contents will make them less attractive to casual thieves pilfering your unit.
Self-storage insurance – like the policy offered by Store and Insure – will help you to replace any of your stored items in the event of fire, theft, flood etc. Get a quote from us to see if you can save on your monthly bill.
Sleep soundly knowing that your stored goods are in safe hands
By selecting the right self-storage company, and taking the steps outlined above, you can be sure that you’ve secured your stored goods as well as you can.
