Preventing Break-Ins at Your Storage Facility
Break-ins can result in property loss, costly repairs, unhappy tenants, and damage to your facility’s reputation. While no security plan can eliminate every risk, a combination of physical security, technology, and consistent operating procedures can make your property a much less attractive target.
Strengthen the Facility Perimeter
Your fence and gate are the first lines of defense. Inspect them regularly for damage, gaps, loose hardware, or areas that could be easily climbed.
Consider the following improvements:
- Keep gates closed outside of business hours.
- Require each tenant to use a unique access code.
- Disable access codes immediately after a tenant moves out.
- Trim trees and shrubs that could conceal suspicious activity.
Install Adequate Lighting
A well-lit facility is less appealing to intruders and makes surveillance footage more useful. Entrances, driveways, hallways, building corners, and isolated unit rows should all have sufficient lighting.
Replace burned-out bulbs promptly and consider motion-activated lights in lower-traffic areas. Walk the property after dark periodically to identify shadows or blind spots that may not be obvious during the day.
Use Security Cameras Strategically
If you use security cameras, they should cover more than the front gate. Position them around entrances, exits, office areas, hallways, and high-risk sections of the property.
For better results:
- Choose cameras that provide clear nighttime footage.
- Avoid placing cameras where trees, signs, or vehicles may block the view.
- Display signs informing visitors that surveillance is in use.
- Review footage regularly instead of waiting for an incident.
- Confirm that recordings are stored securely for an appropriate amount of time.
Cameras are most effective when tenants and potential intruders can clearly see that the property is being monitored.
Control Access Carefully
A strong access-control system can help facility owners determine who entered the property and when. Unique gate codes make it easier to investigate suspicious activity and prevent former tenants from returning.
Monitor access reports for warning signs such as:
- Entry during unusual hours
- Repeated failed access attempts
- One code being used by multiple people
- A tenant entering frequently without visiting their unit
- Vehicles remaining on the property for extended periods
Software such as Unit Trac integrates with your access control software and can help owners maintain accurate tenant records and manage account access more efficiently.
Encourage Tenants to Use Quality Locks
Disc locks and cylinder locks are generally more resistant to cutting and tampering than inexpensive padlocks. Explain your facility’s lock recommendations during move-in and consider offering approved locks for purchase in the office.
Staff should also look for damaged doors, missing locks, or locks that appear to have been altered during routine property inspections.
Keep the Property Maintained
A clean, well-maintained property signals that the facility is actively managed. Broken fencing, damaged doors, poor lighting, and overgrown landscaping can suggest that security is not a priority.
Create a routine inspection checklist that includes:
- Gates and access equipment
- Fencing and exterior boundaries
- Doors, latches, and locks
- Cameras and lighting
- Landscaping and visibility
- Signs of tampering or forced entry
Document issues and address them as quickly as possible.
Train Employees to Recognize Suspicious Activity
Employees should know what to watch for and how to respond safely. Warning signs may include individuals looking into multiple units, vehicles without visible license plates, tailgating through the gate, or someone spending an unusual amount of time on the property.
Establish a clear procedure for documenting incidents, preserving camera footage, contacting management, and calling law enforcement. Employees should never put themselves at risk by confronting a suspected intruder.
Communicate With Your Tenants
Tenants can be valuable partners in facility security. Encourage them to protect their gate codes, keep current contact information on file, and report suspicious activity or damage promptly.
Remind tenants not to store prohibited items or leave valuable belongings visible when opening their units. Periodic security emails can reinforce these practices without causing unnecessary alarm.
Build Security in Layers
No single camera, lock, or gate can protect an entire storage facility. The most effective approach combines multiple layers of security with attentive management and regular maintenance.
By strengthening the perimeter, controlling access, improving visibility, and consistently reviewing facility activity, owners can reduce opportunities for break-ins while creating a safer environment for tenants and their belongings.