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Leaving your belongings somewhere other than home can feel unfamiliar at first, especially if you’re storing a car, family heirlooms, business inventory, or something else that’s hard to replace. So, wondering about storage unit security before you rent is completely reasonable.
But security is a big part of why self-storage exists in the first place. Storage Star builds security into the everyday operation of all our facilities. Below, we’ll break down the security features you’ll find at high-security storage units, the additional options available at select locations, and what to look for when comparing facilities.
High-Security Storage Unit Features at Storage Star
High-security storage units aren’t defined by one feature. It’s their combination of controlled access, ongoing monitoring, regular property checks, and a well-maintained facility. Storage Star brings these measures together to give our renters a more comfortable storage experience.
The table below shows what comes standard across all facilities.
Security Feature | What It Does |
Secure perimeter | Restricts facility access to renters only |
24/7 video surveillance | Continuous monitoring of the property |
Regulated access | Entry controlled by gate code or access system |
Daily lock checks | On-site staff verify units are properly secured |
Well-lit interiors and hallways | Visibility throughout the facility, day or night |
Storage unit insurance | Coverage option for stored belongings through Storage Star or your own provider |
Transparent pricing & online account management | No surprise fees, easy visibility into your account |
High-Security Perimeter
Every Storage Star facility has a fully gated perimeter, restricted access, or both. At indoor facilities, renters use controlled entry points to access the building and their storage area. This isn’t a response to a bad neighborhood. Rather, it’s simply how we operate. Controlled access is standard practice, the same way a locked front door is standard for any building.
24/7 Video Surveillance
Storage Star uses video surveillance to monitor facilities around the clock. Cameras are positioned throughout common areas and access points to provide ongoing visibility across the property. Round-the-clock surveillance gives renters peace of mind that their belongings are safe, even when staff isn’t on-site.
Regulated Access
To get into a Storage Star facility, you need a gate code or access credential tied to your account. That keeps foot traffic limited to people who have units on-site. Most of our facilities also have early-morning and late-night access, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. This gives renters flexibility to visit their unit on their own schedule.
Daily Lock Checks
Storage Star’s on-site teams regularly walk the property as part of their daily routine. During these checks, staff members look at storage units and verify that doors and locks are properly secured. It’s a simple step, but it adds a human element to the facility’s other monitoring and access features.
Well-Lit Interiors and Hallways
Good lighting makes it easier to navigate a storage facility, especially during early-morning or evening visits. Storage Star has lighting throughout interior spaces, including hallways and customer access areas. Not only does the lighting help you see better within the facility, but it also deters people from breaking in.
Advanced Security Features Available at Select Locations
Some Storage Star facilities offer additional features for customers who want more control over unit access or added protection for sensitive belongings. These options are location-specific and aren’t available at every facility, so check the amenities at your preferred location before renting.
Depending on the facility, additional security features may include:
Climate-controlled or heated storage: Climate-controlled units help maintain a more stable storage environment than a standard unit. This can be especially useful for family heirlooms, photographs, documents, wood furniture, electronics, and other belongings that may be affected by extreme temperatures.
Noke Smart Entry: Select locations offer Noke Bluetooth smart technology, allowing customers to use a smartphone to access their storage unit rather than a physical key. This gives renters a convenient way to manage access directly from their phone.
Artificial intelligence (AI) surveillance monitoring: Additionally, some Storage Star facilities use advanced monitoring technology alongside traditional video surveillance. AI-enabled systems can assist with monitoring activity captured by facility cameras, adding another layer to the property’s existing security measures.
What to Look for When Choosing a Storage Facility
Whether you rent with us or someone else, a few basics separate a secure facility from one that just claims to be. Before you rent, look for the following:
Gated access and controlled entry: Find out how customers enter the property or building. Individual gate codes or account-linked credentials provide more control over who has access to renter areas.
Visible camera coverage: Don’t rely on a sign that says the property is under surveillance. Look for cameras throughout common areas and near doors.
On-site staff: Technology is useful, but having staff at the facility adds another level of protection. Ask whether team members walk the property regularly and check units.
Insurance or protection options: Security features don’t eliminate every risk. Ask what insurance or tenant protection options are available and what your rental agreement requires before moving valuable belongings into the unit.
Good lighting: Look at the hallways, drive aisles, entrances, and the area around your unit. This is especially important if you expect to visit early in the morning or later in the evening.
If possible, tour the facility before deciding. A clean property with visible cameras, controlled access, and attentive staff can tell you more than a list of security features.
How Is Storage Star Different?
Honestly, you’ll find many of these security claims across most reputable storage facilities. The difference often becomes clearer when you visit a facility in person.
At Storage Star, security is part of how our properties are managed day-to-day.
Surveillance throughout the facility: We have multiple cameras throughout the property, and surveillance recordings are generally retained for 30 days and may be available on request.
Daily lock checks: That technology works with regular property checks and an on-site team that customers can turn to when they have questions.
Clean, well-lit facilities: Cleanliness is also important to us. Having clean hallways, units, drive aisles, and common areas makes it easier for our staff to notice when something needs attention. More importantly, it reflects the level of care that goes into managing our properties.
Customer care that really cares: Our team members are there to help customers choose the right size unit, understand facility access, manage their rental, and address concerns that come up along the way. While security technology plays an important role, having attentive people on-site makes a difference.
Storage Star Security Reviews from Real Customers
Don’t just take our word for it. Our customers frequently mention security alongside cleanliness and customer service when describing their experiences.
“The place is very clean and bright. There are many security cameras.” – Jose S., Irving, TX“The facility is clean, secure, and easy to access. The staff were courteous, helpful, and made the whole process smooth from start to finish.” LF Media Dept, Plano, TX“I’ve been renting there for two years. Amazing staff workers, very attentive, understanding, and a safe environment.” – Devanie A., Sacramento, CA“Renting here was easy; the units are secure, surveillance is present, and payments can be made online.” Amy M., Cheyenne, WYFrequently Asked Questions About Storage Unit Security
Are storage units safe?
Yes. Storage facilities are designed to be secure. Many have layered security, gated access, video surveillance, daily lock checks, and on-site staff, which make units harder to access and more secure than a space at home.
How can I make my storage unit more secure?
Start with a strong lock recommended for self-storage use and never share your access credentials. Keep an inventory of valuable belongings, avoid leaving boxes or items outside your unit, and make sure the door is completely closed and locked each time you leave.
Is theft common in storage units?
No. Facilities with gated access, surveillance, and on-site staff see very low theft rates. Most incidents that do occur happen because of using a low-quality lock or sharing access codes.
What’s the difference between video surveillance and AI monitoring?
Video surveillance records footage for review, typically after something has already happened. AI monitoring analyzes camera feeds in real time and can flag unusual activity as it occurs. This adds an extra layer of active oversight at facilities that offer it.
Do I need my own insurance for a storage unit?
Insurance and protection requirements can vary by facility and rental agreement. Some offer a protection plan, while others want you to invest in your own insurance policy. You can also check with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance because they may already cover stored belongings.
What are smart locks, and how do they work?
Smart locks, like Noke Bluetooth locks, let you access your unit using a smartphone app instead of a physical key or shared code. They’re available at select Storage Star locations.
Find Secure Storage Near You
Choosing a storage unit means trusting a facility with belongings that are important to you. Storage Star makes security part of the experience with high-security features at all our locations. Whether you’re looking for household, business, or vehicle storage, you can find a facility that fits your needs. Find a Storage Star near you and see the difference for yourself.
FAQs
Are storage units safe?
Yes. Storage facilities are designed to be secure. Many have layered security, gated access, video surveillance, daily lock checks, and on-site staff, which make units harder to access and more secure than a space at home.
How can I make my storage unit more secure?
Start with a strong lock recommended for self-storage use and never share your access credentials. Keep an inventory of valuable belongings, avoid leaving boxes or items outside your unit, and make sure the door is completely closed and locked each time you leave.
Is theft common in storage units?
No. Facilities with gated access, surveillance, and on-site staff see very low theft rates. Most incidents that do occur happen because of using a low-quality lock or sharing access codes.
What’s the difference between video surveillance and AI monitoring?
Video surveillance records footage for review, typically after something has already happened. AI monitoring analyzes camera feeds in real time and can flag unusual activity as it occurs. This adds an extra layer of active oversight at facilities that offer it.
Do I need my own insurance for a storage unit?
Insurance and protection requirements can vary by facility and rental agreement. Some offer a protection plan, while others want you to invest in your own insurance policy. You can also check with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance because they may already cover stored belongings.
What are smart locks, and how do they work?
Smart locks, like Noke Bluetooth locks, let you access your unit using a smartphone app instead of a physical key or shared code. They’re available at select Storage Star locations.
