Discover the latest self storage security trends, risks, and solutions to protect your storage site.
Security in self storage is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Rising crime rates across the UK and Europe are putting pressure on self storage operators to enhance their facility security systems. Break-ins and theft are becoming increasingly common, particularly in urban areas. Operators are concerned, and rightly so.
According to the latest FEDESSA report, 29% of facilities plan to invest in additional security measures within the next 12 months. Similarly, a 2024 survey by Modern Storage Media and Janus International reveals that many self storage operators, especially in the US, are seeing no year-on-year reduction in break-ins.
Key Findings from the Modern Storage Media survey:
• 92% of operators use CCTV surveillance
• 71% of operators have digital keypad access control
• 79% of operators report no drop in break-ins
These figures highlight the urgent need for advanced self storage security solutions that go beyond traditional methods.
Where Are Self Storage Break-Ins Happening?
The survey suggests that self storage break-ins are most frequent in urban and suburban areas, although rural storage sites are not immune. As crime becomes more organised and opportunistic, operators must take proactive steps to protect their customers’ belongings and their business reputation.
How to Improve Self Storage Security
To strengthen your facility security and deter criminal activity, consider implementing the following best practices:
1. Upgrade to High-Security Doors
Reinforced self storage doors provide greater resistance to forced entry attempts.
2. Install Smart Lock Systems
Smart locks, such as Nokē Smart Entry, offer real-time access control, remote monitoring, and keyless entry, eliminating the vulnerabilities of padlocks.
3. Enhance Security Lighting
Bright, well-lit environments around units and access points help discourage criminal activity and support better CCTV visibility.
4. Strengthen Access Control Systems
Modern digital access control with mobile app integration provides better tracking and limits unauthorised entry.
5. Maintain Perimeter Security and CCTV
High-resolution CCTV, motion sensors, and secure fencing remain vital parts of a comprehensive storage security plan.
Proven Results with Unit-Level Security
Self storage operators using unit-level smart entry systems like Nokē have seen:
✅ 95% fewer break-in claims
✅ Increased tenant satisfaction
✅ Better security visibility and reporting
These results show the impact of modern security technology in safeguarding storage units and reducing insurance claims.
Invest in Trusted, Award-Winning Security Solutions
At Janus International Europe, we provide award-winning, scalable security solutions tailored for UK and European self storage facilities. Our Nokē Smart Entry system is a leading choice for operators looking to future-proof their business with advanced, cloud-based access control and unit monitoring.
Protect your self storage facility today—because security is more than a feature, it’s your foundation.
To find out more about our range of self storage and access control solutions, please get in touch on: sales@januseurope.com or +44 (0)20 8744 9444.
