There are all sorts of reasons why you might need self-storage, now or in the near future. As self-storage professionals, we know that our customers require a service that is flexible, easy to use, and above all, secure! But just how safe and secure are self-storage units?
In this blog, we’ll look at everything that goes into keeping your goods and belongings safe, from security protocols to best practice storage tips and much more.
What type of security is used by self-storage companies?
Ensuring the safety of your belongings is of paramount importance to self-storage businesses. Their customers are putting their trust in the business to keep their valuable belongings safe and unharmed during their time there.
Which means that storage companies, like ourselves, have several security measures place, such as:
- CCTV Cameras
- Fire-resistant reinforced concrete
- Fire Detectors
- Intruder Detectors
- Key Card Systems
Alongside our authorised team of experienced self-storage professionals, we’re confident in providing you with high-quality safety and security for your belongings.
How often do storage units get broken into?
There are no formal statistics publicly available; however, when people refer to storage break-ins, they are usually referring to outdoor units that are generally more at risk of unwanted attention.
In general, it’s safe to assume that break-ins into self-storage warehouses are very rare. With the numerous measures we’ve listed above, we can guarantee that your goods will be extremely secure – and only you and your authorised personnel will be allowed access to your unit.
What are the primary risks that can affect self-storage?
While your self-storage provider will make every effort to ensure that your belongings and goods will be returned to you exactly how you found them, there are some unlikely threats that could cause harm.
1. Extreme Weather
Extreme weather, particularly heavy rainfall can be an issue for self-storage facilities that are situated outdoors. If you’re looking to store in an area that’s prone to flood risk, it may be worth opting for an indoor facility that sits above ground level. At GTW Storage, our storage warehouse in Glasgow is completely water tight, so the risk of flooding is very rare.
2. Fire hazard
When it comes to fire hazards, storage facilities strictly prohibit the storage of flammable items to reduce this risk. Despite these regulations, this does not mean there is zero risk, as electrical faults, smoking, and even arson may still affect your belongings.
If you are worried about fire risk, be sure to connect with your chosen facility who will be happy to talk you through their regulations and protocol. For example, here at GTW Storage our warehouse is constructed with fire-resistant concrete to minimise risk.
3. Facility hygiene and pest infestations
Hygiene is also an important factor in effective storage etiquette. Poorly kept facilities may be more susceptible to mould or even pest infestations.
Should you have any concerns about the safety of your possessions and goods, consult your self-storage provider about their hygiene policy. At GTW storage, we take pest control very seriously and regularly inspect our warehouse and take a number of preventative measures to ensure it is safe.
How to protect your stored items even further
Your secure storage provider will make every effort to ensure your belongings are secure however there are some other ways to further protect your items while in storage:
1. Opting for insurance
Opting for insurance can be one of the easiest ways to give yourself that extra peace of mind. Your current insurance should cover you while your stuff is in storage, however if it doesn’t, you may wish to visit www.insurastore.com who specialises in insurance for self-storage. We do not sell insurance.
2. Choose a highly reviewed storage company
With various solutions available, knowing which self-storage option is right for you can be tricky. To make sure your belongings are kept in pristine condition, take the time to do the research and choose a highly reviewed storage company.
With trusted review aggregators available online that cover most storage units, you’ll be able to find an option that is not only high quality but also tailored to your specific budget needs. You can find reviews for GTW Storage here.
3. Ask the team about their security measures
If you want to know more about your chosen storage provider’s security measures, ask a member of the team who will be more than happy to share the measures they have in place to ensure their customers possessions are kept safe
With GTW Storage, we’re available seven days a week to answer your questions via phone and email, or feel free to pop in and chat with us – our team will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
Full contact details can be found here, or for more info at a glance, visit our FAQs page.
4. Create an inventory of your belongings
Just like an attendance register at school, creating an inventory of your belongings is the best way to keep track of your possessions and make sure that nothing gets left behind!
If you’re planning on storing several items of various shapes and sizes, it can be easy to lose track. By making a list, you can be confident that everything you’ve stored is where it should be.
5. Pack for safety
Pack for safety. If you’re storing delicate items or items prone to falling over, be sure to store these items as securely as you can i.e. nothing leaning against a wall that may slip and fall, and nothing stacked precariously.
You may even want to wrap delicate items in bubble wrap or store them in a secure box for added protection.
Why security is important for self-storage
For self-storage solutions providers, customer satisfaction is our number one priority, and that means keeping your goods safe, secure, and in the same condition they were delivered in.
With indoor self-storage providing far greater protection from the elements, and the various industry-standard security features found at GTW, self-storage remains among the most safe and affordable solutions, whatever your needs.