A Complete Guide for Owners, Operators, and Managers

Security is no longer a “nice to have” for self-storage facilities—it’s a competitive advantage and a customer expectation. Break-ins not only jeopardize your tenants’ belongings, but they also affect trust, damage your reputation, and directly impact your bottom line.

Why Security Measures Are Essential for Self-Storage Operators

Whether you’re managing a single facility or scaling across multiple states, you know self storage facilities face unique vulnerabilities:

• Minimal staff presence or overnight monitoring
• Open layouts and drive-up access
• Inconsistent infrastructure between buildings
• High-value contents with high tenant expectations

A single break-in can cause far more than financial loss—it damages your brand, invites repeat offenses, and creates tenant churn.

Security systems don’t just deter intruders—they play a critical role in reducing liability and managing long-term insurance costs. Facilities with little to no modern security often face:

• Increased exposure to claims
• Slower or disputed claim resolutions
• Higher insurance premiums due to perceived risk

Upgrading to a system with license plate recognition (LPR), cloud-based video management (VMS), and logged access control gives operators a measurable advantage. Clear video evidence and access records can:

• Streamline theft and damage claims
• Demonstrate compliance and due diligence
• Limit liability by showing security protocols were followed

Many insurers offer premium reductions for facilities with 24/7 surveillance, active deterrents, and verifiable incident footage.

Security is more than prevention—it’s a strategic tool for protecting revenue, reputation, and operational continuity.

"Criminals don’t just strike once. If they’re successful, they come back." - James Campbell (Technology Manager at SCW)

Watch the Self-Storage Security Solutions Webinar

This is a webinar recording from March 27th, 2025, where we dive into self-storage security challenges and the latest solutions to keep your facility, tenants, and assets secure.

Common Break-Ins, Legal Issues, and Operational Risks

Before investing in solutions, it’s essential to understand where most self storage security systems fall short:

• Lack of surveillance on all rows or outdoor buildings
• No license plate logging at gate
• No proactive deterrents after hours
• Patchwork access control or no unit-level security
• Inconsistent infrastructure limiting camera coverage
• Poor lighting at night

SCW has solved these problems at scale for operators ranging from single-site startups to 100+ location giants like KO Storage. Read the self storage security case study here.

Self-Storage Security System Best Practices

Comprehensive Surveillance Strategy

Video surveillance is your first and most powerful line of defense. A layered camera system offers both deterrence and documentation.

Best Practices:

• Cover all key entry points, including gates and corridors
• Use LPR (License Plate Recognition) cameras at gates
• Deploy multi-sensor security cameras for wide coverage with fewer cables
• Use zoom or long-range surveillance cameras where infrastructure is sparse
• Ensure night vision and weatherproofing for outdoor rows

Case in Point: Store More 365 deployed a 28-camera system using SCW’s Warrior and Archer cameras with active deterrence lighting and speakers across RV and boat storage areas.

Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges

Outdoor self-storage facilities often lack connectivity between buildings. That’s where SCW’s expert system design makes a difference.

How SCW Solves It:

• Wireless bridges to transmit video across large lots without trenching
• POE switches with extended transmission for long cable runs
• External conduit recommendations for exposed cabling
• Full site design with camera placement maps—even before construction finishes

Expert Roundtable: Self Storage Security Setup

Go behind the scenes with SCW's leadership team in this in-depth roundtable discussion on designing and deploying security camera systems for self storage facilities. Hosted by product specialist James Campbell, this episode features CEO Matthew Nederlanden, COO Micah Shearer, and head of sales Ben Larue.

• Infrastructure hurdles like lack of power or network access
• Strategic camera placement to optimize storage facility security
• What makes a robust security system and how to scale it
• Must-have components for modern storage unit security systems

Surveillance Hardware For Self Storage Security

SCW has extensive experience in the self storage industry — whether you're covering drive-up storage units, indoor corridors, or vehicle-access gates, your security camera system needs to be more than just a recording tool—it must be a real-time deterrent, investigative resource, and insurance asset.

Here’s how SCW’s hardware and platform deliver on all three:

License Plate Recognition (LPR) Cameras + ViewStation VMS

Mounted at entrance/exit points, these cameras automatically capture and log every vehicle’s license plate with timestamped data.

Benefits:

• Search and filter plate history in SCW’s ViewStation VMS
• Link vehicle access to incidents or claims
• Get real-time alerts for specific plate matches (e.g., banned vehicles)

Multi-Sensor Cameras for Maximum Coverage

SCW’s multi-sensor surveillance cameras deliver wide-area visibility using 2- or 4-lens configurations in a single housing—ideal for self storage rows, open lots, and building corners.

Why it matters:

• Fewer cable runs and fewer NVR channels used
• Seamless 180° or 360° coverage from one mount point
• Improved video clarity for large open spaces or multiple angles

Wireless Bridges “Not your grandma’s Wi-Fi.”

Running underground cable between buildings isn’t always possible or affordable. SCW’s wireless bridge technology solves that, letting you extend your camera network without breaking concrete.

Use cases:

• Connect detached buildings without internet or cable infrastructure
• Add cameras to far-off rows, gates, or fencing areas
• Power additional devices (like access control systems or sensors)

Once the bridge is installed, you can treat distant buildings like they’re wired to the main office—without the cost of trenching or complex conduit routes.

Advanced Access Control Systems

Gate codes alone won’t cut it anymore. Tenants expect modern, secure access.

Modern Access Control Systems Include:

• Gate entry readers with logged credentials
• Mobile-friendly entry apps for tenants
• Optional locker-level smart locks
• Cloud management for credential changes and audit trails

Lighting

Lighting is a simple but often overlooked deterrent. Ensure lighting is bright enough for storage units and surrounding walkways.

Best Practices:

• Install bright, motion-activated LED lights around gates, corridors, and unit rows.
• Ensure areas covered by cameras are also well-lit for better image clarity.
• Maintain lighting systems to prevent outages that create blind spots.

Proactive Remote Monitoring

What happens after hours when no one’s watching?

Modern video systems can go beyond passive recording. Remote guarding brings real-time human intelligence to your facility—without having to hire on-site staff.

SCW’s Remote Guarding Benefits:

• Trained U.S.-based agents monitor your security cameras after hours.
• Two-way audio intervention (guards speak directly to intruders)
• Police dispatch for verified alarms
• Detailed incident reports, SOPs, and call tree support

Real-world results: unlike traditional camera setups that only record footage, remote guarding enables real-time intervention. Trained operators can engage with intruders based on your standard operating procedure.

Here is an example of a real incident:

• At 1:45 am, an unauthorized vehicle drove onto a large construction site. The agents in the Operations Center received an alarm indicating a trespasser.
• At 1:47 am, intruders were warned through a series of talk-downs, asking them to leave immediately. The team initiated client SOPs and contacted the point of contact.
• At 1:50 am, local police were dispatched to the scene.
• At 2:04 am, the intruder was seen leaving the property with stolen items.
• At 2:16 am, police arrived and our agents briefed officers on the incident, leading to the capture of the trespasser and recovery of all property.

Flexible Options: DIY or Full-Service—You Choose

SCW supports every type of owner—from hands-on DIYers to large-scale operators.

• Free site layout consultations (using photos or site maps)
• Easy-to-install kits with remote configuration support
• U.S.-based, lifetime tech support
• Professional installation assistance available if needed

Build in Layers: A Self Storage Security Checklist

The most secure facilities use layered security—a strategy where different technologies work together to prevent, detect, and respond to incidents.

Perimeter:

• Fencing and controlled gates
• Motion-triggered lighting
• LPR and zoom cameras

Facility Rows:

• Fixed cameras on each building face
• Long-range coverage for deep rows
• Active deterrence with lights/speakers

Unit-Level:

• Smart locks (optional)
• Audible alarms or motion detection

Office / Management Areas:

• Indoor cameras for customer service windows
• Access control for staff-only rooms
• Backup storage for recordings

Monitoring:

• Cloud access to cameras and alerts
• SCW’s Remote Guarding with talk-down
• Custom response SOPs

Frequently Asked Questions From Self Storage Businesses

How does the infrastructure complicate security system implementation?

Most facilities face:

• Limited network coverage across multiple buildings
• Inconsistent power availability outside the main office
• Challenging installation logistics due to distance or outdoor-only cabling needs

SCW addresses these problems with solutions like wireless bridges to extend connectivity without trenching and multi-sensor or zoom cameras to reduce installation costs.

What should self storage facility owners consider when upgrading security?

Start by:

• Mapping the current infrastructure – fences, lights, gates, power, network
• Requesting site plans and speaking with the previous owner
• Documenting existing security systems – what perimeter security measures are in place? Cameras, access panels, etc.
• Scheduling a site walkthrough with a security consultant

SCW offers free consultations and can use photos or digital layouts to recommend cost-effective, tailored solutions.

Can I install a security system myself?

Absolutely. Many owners opt for DIY installation to save costs. SCW supports DIYers with:

• Plug-and-play camera systems
• Pre-configured equipment
• Technical support
• Site plan reviews and camera placement advice

Common DIY setups still involve hiring a local electrician to handle conduit runs and power prep, particularly for automated gates and lighting.

Ready to Build a Safer, Smarter Self Storage Security System?

In the self storage industry, security isn't just a compliance box—it’s a marketing asset, a risk management strategy, and a driver of occupancy. Whether you operate a single site or manage multiple properties, taking action today can protect your investment, your tenants, and your reputation tomorrow.

By following these best practices, operators can create a safe and secure environment for renters. Investing in a modern, layered security solution is essential for both peace of mind and long-term operational stability.

SCW can protect you while providing money-saving time and benefits. Our specialist security teams boast the history and expertise your facilities need.

Get Started with a modern surveillance ecosystem for your self storage facility. Get your free custom quote below.