How safe is your stuff? Review these important tips before storing your valuables in a facility

You might think of storage space security as relating to keeping your goods safe. While that's true, you also want to be sure that where the facility is located is safe enough for you to visit to add more stuff to storage, or take stuff out.

These places are often in a rough part of town, so be sure you weigh that factor when looking for storage facilities.

OUTSIDE THE STORAGE UNIT

• Are the grounds well maintained? It indicates that management cares about your stuff that's inside.
• Is there overgrown vegetation along the walls? Vermin just LOVE that -- they can then burrow their way into a building. See whether there are bait boxes for pests. These need to be well maintained and have the bait changed regularly. Also, be sure to ask the management about pest control. The security fence must be whole.
• Note the condition of the parking lots. Local toughs hanging about? Dark entrances? Not good signs.

INSIDE THE UNIT

• Is it well lit and maintained?
• Are fire extinguishers and ceiling sprinklers readily apparent?
• Is the staff well-mannered and presentable? They're responsible for security, so it's like they're watching your stuff ? feel comfortable with them.

SECURITY

There are different levels of security in each facility -- decide which level is suitable for you.

• Fences: Brick walls are preferable to metal cyclone-type fences as they keep prying eyes from seeing inside.
• Motion Sensors is another level of protection both inside and out. When motion is detected the light comes on and alarm sounds.
• Alarm systems are a very important crime deterrent ? ask about them. Are they connected to the local police? Are fire alarms connected to the local fire department?
• If your storage unit is protected by keypad access, the security that this offers will set your mind at ease. You will need to use a code to get access to your stored possessions, including hallways and elevators. An extra level of security may be limiting your elevator access to where your items are stored.
• Lighting ? Good inside and outside lighting is a major deterrent; the lighting can be always on or triggered by movement.
• Locks ? You will probably need to provide your own, giving you control who has access to your unit.
• On Site Guards ? Some facilities provide twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, on site security. Other facilities have a resident manager who serves as a guard off-hours.
• Close Circuit Television (CCTV) ? This is a very efficient way to monitor the facility.

By Relocation.com Staff | Published: 12/22/2008