The lack of space is felt more and more these days. There storage unit rental, which has become trendy, is one of the best solutions to free up more living space.
However, one detail is essential before storing your belongings in a storage unit: security. The use of storage boxes must, in fact, rhyme with confidence and security for the customer.
If you have recently thought about rent a storage unit to store your belongings in excess, find out the safety conditions you need to know before you start.
In summary: before renting a storage unit, check five essential criteria: access security, video surveillance, alarm systems, insurance coverage, and the overall condition of the premises. A secure self-storage facility should also offer access control, clean and ventilated spaces, and tracking of entries and exits to ensure the protection of your belongings.
Table of Contents
Renting storage units: what does the law say?
According to the regulations, It is mandatory for a person wishing to rent a storage unit to take out insurance.This last step must be carried out either through the insurer or with the self-storage company itself.
In other words, it is a contractual insurance obligation. It must be respected when signing up for the rental commitment, but also throughout the rental period.
The purpose of this insurance is to partially or completely cover the goods stored in the premises, whatever their nature, in the event of an incident. The amount of this insurance varies depending on the value of the goods stored in the box. Please note, however, that this value communicated for information purposes is subject to change at any time.
For more information on the regulatory aspect regarding furniture storage and self-storage, click here
Renting storage units: guaranteed security?
A/An self-storage must resist the risks of fire, theft, accidents, intrusions, etc. In other words, it is supposed to respect a protocol to ensure the safety of the stored goods.
Furthermore, if you are the future tenant of a box, you must pay particular attention to the security system hired by the storage company.
This way you can ensure that your personal or professional belongings will be in good hands.
In addition, the main advantage of renting a storage unit, is to store your objects safely. Unlike the simple use of a cellar or garage where objects are constantly exposed to threats and dangers.
Renting storage units: what are the 5 security systems?
A storage center must be keen to set up a efficient security system so that the property entrusted to him is well protected.
Fire detection
Why is this important?
A fire can destroy all the goods stored in a storage unit in minutes. A high-performance detection system can quickly identify the start of a fire and trigger an alarm to limit damage and protect people and stored property.
How can this be verified during the visit?
Find out about the installed equipment: smoke detectors, heat detectors, fire alarms, or fire safety systems. You can also check for the presence of fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, and evacuation plans in the common areas.
What are the risks in its absence?
The consequences can be significant: destruction of stored goods, spread of fire to neighboring units and interruption of access to the center.
Video surveillance and remote surveillance
Why is this important?
CCTV cameras act as a deterrent against break-in attempts and allow for the preservation of images in the event of an incident. They enhance the security of common areas and facilitate investigations should a problem arise.
How can this be verified during the visit?
Check for the presence of cameras in access points, corridors, and traffic areas. Don't hesitate to ask if the images are recorded continuously, how long they are kept, and if the system operates 24/7.
What are the risks in its absence?
Without CCTV, it is more difficult to identify the perpetrators of theft or vandalism. Acts of vandalism are also less deterred.
Access control to premises
Why is this important?
Access control ensures that only authorized personnel can enter the storage facility. It limits the risks of intrusion, theft, and vandalism by preventing unauthorized visitors from accessing the storage units.
How can this be verified during the visit?
Ask how access to the facility works. A secure self-storage center typically uses a badge, personal code, electronic key, or mobile app. Also, verify that access is individualized and that entries are logged.
What are the risks in its absence?
Without access control, anyone can potentially enter the premises, increasing the risk of theft, damage, or access to property that does not belong to them.
The secure closing system
Why is this important?
Even if the center is secure, each storage unit must have a reliable locking system to individually protect each customer's belongings against break-in attempts.
How can this be verified during the visit?
Examine the type of locking mechanism offered: high-security padlock, reinforced lock, or specific locking system. Also check that the storage unit door is in good condition, without any play or signs of wear.
What are the risks in its absence?
A weak lock can be forced open more easily. Stored goods then become more vulnerable to theft or damage.
Regular monitoring by staff
Why is this important?
Regular staff presence allows for the rapid detection of anomalies, malfunctions, or unusual behavior.
How can this be verified during the visit?
Ask the manager about the frequency of patrols, the teams' working hours, and the procedures in place in case of an incident. Available and responsive staff are generally a good indicator of the center's professionalism.
What are the risks in its absence?
Without regular human monitoring, a breakdown, an open door or an attempted break-in can go unnoticed for several hours.
Summary table of security measures for the storage unit
| Safety device | Why is this important? |
|---|---|
| Access control | Limits entry to authorized persons. |
| Video surveillance | It deters intrusions and facilitates verifications. |
| Alarms | They quickly detect break-in attempts. |
| Assurance | Financially protects your assets in the event of a disaster. |
| Clean and ventilated premises | They protect furniture, boxes and documents from moisture. |
Why choose Lockall to secure your belongings?
Renting a box at Lockall guarantees the secure storage of your belongings. Discover our storage solutions adapted to all your needs. You have the choice between several types of boxes with a surface area ranging from 0.5 to 50 m². Each site is provided withalarms and a large number of video surveillance cameras which operate 7 days a week and 24 hours a day.
Each visit to the box is done in the safest way since access is carried out using an application equipped with encrypted technology. Opening your storage space is done using a digital key from your own smartphone. In fact, our center is the first to bring innovative storage technology to the market.
Your protection will be further strengthened than ever. You can say goodbye to the constraints of using old-fashioned tools like padlocks or lever locks.
In terms of fire safety, Lockall also offers you a most innovative and standard solution. The additional click & collect service also demonstrates the inventive side of our center. In the event of the tenant's absence, the latter can leave digital access to a third person who can, in turn, access the contents of the box.
Key points to remember
- Always check the security features before signing.
- Ensure that only authorized users can access the site.
- Check for the presence of CCTV and alarms.
- Check the insurance conditions.
- Choose a clean, dry and well-maintained center.
