Learn how to thoroughly evaluate a storage facility’s security measures, from surveillance systems to access controls, before trusting them with your belongings.
When you’re searching for a reliable storage and moving company, security should top your priority list.
But how can you tell if a facility’s safety measures are truly up to par? Let’s dive into the essential security features you should verify and the red flags to watch for.
Essential Security Features Checklist
Before you sign any contract, verify these crucial security elements:
| Security Feature | Minimum Standard | Premium Standard | Why It Matters |
| Video Surveillance | 720p cameras, 30-day storage | 4K cameras, 90-day storage | Evidence quality |
| Access Control | Key code entry | Biometric scanning | Unauthorized entry prevention |
| Perimeter Security | 8-foot fencing | 12-foot fencing with razor wire | Base protection |
| Lighting | Motion-activated | 24/7 LED coverage | Deterrent effect |
| Staff Presence | Business hours only | 24/7 on-site staff | Response time |
Primary Security Components
1. Surveillance Systems
- Camera coverage
- Recording quality
- Footage retention
- Monitoring protocols
2. Access Control Methods
- Entry point security
- Individual unit locks
- Key management
- Visitor tracking
How to Verify Security Claims
Follow these steps to confirm a facility’s security measures:
Documentation Review
- Request and Review:
- Security certificates
- Insurance documentation
- Incident reports
- Staff training records
- Verify Credentials:
- Business licenses
- Security provider contracts
- Insurance coverage
- Industry certifications
Security System Assessment Guide
Use this detailed evaluation framework:
| Area | What to Check | Red Flags |
| Cameras | Blind spots, quality | Outdated equipment, gaps in coverage |
| Lighting | Dark areas, maintenance | Burnt-out bulbs, inadequate coverage |
| Gates | Operation, durability | Damage, slow response |
| Locks | Quality, maintenance | Rust, wear, outdated systems |
| Monitoring | Response protocols | Unclear procedures, limited monitoring |
Physical Security Features
Look for these essential elements:
- Perimeter Protection
- Fence height and condition
- Gate functionality
- Natural barriers
- Anti-climbing measures
- Building Security
- Door strength
- Window protection
- Roof access controls
- Emergency exits
Technology and Monitoring
Modern security requires robust systems:
Digital Security Features
| Feature | Basic Level | Advanced Level | Elite Level |
| Cameras | Analog | HD Digital | AI-Enhanced |
| Access | Keypad | Key Card | Biometric |
| Monitoring | Business Hours | 24/7 Remote | 24/7 On-site |
| Alerts | None | Real-time SMS |
Staff Training and Protocols
Verify these personnel elements:
- Security Training
- Emergency procedures
- Customer screening
- Incident response
- Access management
- Daily Operations
- Opening procedures
- Closing checks
- Visitor protocols
- Emergency response
Insurance and Liability
Understand the protection in place:
Coverage Requirements
| Type | Minimum Coverage | Recommended Coverage |
| Property | $100,000 | $500,000 |
| Liability | $1 million | $5 million |
| Theft | Basic | Comprehensive |
| Natural Disasters | Limited | Full Coverage |
Environmental Security
Consider these environmental factors:
- Natural Disaster Protection
- Flood prevention
- Fire suppression
- Storm resistance
- Climate control
- Pest Control
- Regular inspections
- Prevention measures
- Treatment protocols
- Monitoring systems
Emergency Response Systems
Evaluate emergency preparedness:
Critical Response Elements
| System | Response Time | Backup Systems |
| Fire | Under 3 minutes | Multiple alarms |
| Police | Under 5 minutes | Silent alarms |
| Medical | Under 7 minutes | First aid stations |
| Power | Immediate | Generator backup |
Customer Access Protocols
Verify these access features:
- Regular Access
- Hours of operation
- Entry procedures
- Identity verification
- Unit access
- Special Circumstances
- After-hours access
- Emergency entry
- Third-party access
- Moving procedures
Documentation and Records
Important papers to review:
Required Documentation
| Document | Purpose | Update Frequency |
| Security Logs | Track incidents | Daily |
| Access Records | Monitor entry/exit | Real-time |
| Maintenance Reports | System upkeep | Monthly |
| Inspection Records | Compliance check | Quarterly |
Red Flags to Watch For
Be wary of these warning signs:
- Facility Issues
- Poor maintenance
- Broken equipment
- Inadequate lighting
- Unsecured areas
- Management Problems
- Unclear policies
- Poor communication
- Inadequate staffing
- Limited availability
Questions to Ask
Get answers to these crucial queries:
Security Assessment Questions
| Category | Questions | Desired Answer |
| Surveillance | How long is footage kept? | 30+ days |
| Access | Who has master key access? | Limited staff only |
| Monitoring | What’s the response protocol? | Clear procedure |
| Insurance | What’s covered? | Comprehensive policy |
Making Your Final Decision
Consider these factors:
- Security Level vs. Cost
- Basic security needs
- Value of stored items
- Insurance requirements
- Budget constraints
- Location Considerations
- Neighborhood safety
- Police response time
- Natural disaster risk
- Accessibility
Security Maintenance and Updates
Ongoing security measures:
Regular Assessment Schedule
| Component | Check Frequency | Update Schedule |
| Cameras | Weekly | Every 3-5 years |
| Access Systems | Monthly | Every 2-3 years |
| Locks | Quarterly | As needed |
| Software | Monthly | Every 6 months |
Conclusion: Your Security Checklist
Before making your final decision, ensure you:
- Complete All Verifications
- Physical inspection
- Document review
- Staff interviews
- Security testing
- Get Everything in Writing
- Security features
- Access policies
- Emergency procedures
- Insurance coverage
- Trust Your Instincts
- Overall impression
- Staff professionalism
- Facility maintenance
- Security commitment
Final Recommendations:
- Document all observations
- Take photos if permitted
- Request written policies
- Verify all claims
- Compare multiple facilities
- Consider future needs
Remember that the best security system is the one that matches your specific needs and provides peace of mind.
