The demand for space continues to increase as people accumulate more belongings. In the U.S. alone, we spend nearly $4 billion a year building self storage units.
Today, existing storage structures are at 92% capacity, leaving millions of Americans to battle over the remaining 8%.
Given the high demand, it’s clear that self storage facility owners have the opportunity to generate massive income But the key to meeting demand isn’t just having the space. You’ll also need to maintain and renovate it to ensure customer satisfaction, boost property value, and increase safety.
Let’s look at the best ways to run and maintain a self storage facility in 2023.
Importance of Storage Maintenance in the Self Storage Industry
For many self storage facility owners, renovations play a pivotal role in retaining customers. For example, if your facility floods due to a malfunctioning sprinkler system (that wasn’t wasn’t properly maintained), water damage to stored furniture, seasonal décor, and electronics, may lead renters to vacate in search of a better-maintained storage facility.
Remember, storage facilities can also be sued for negligence if the water damage inflicted is a result of poor maintenance.
Besides limiting liability, a thoughtfully-conducted maintenance plan can also:
- Save a facility owner time and money
- Boost the safety, curb appeal, and property value of a storage facility
- Realize higher rental incomes
- Generate passive income
- Make the facility more accessible
- Minimize the total cost of repairs
- Ensure tenants are content with the tidiness of the facility
But diligent maintenance won’t be enough to give your storage facility competitive edge in the market. You’ll also need to renovate.
For maximum impact, start by upgrading your facility’s security gates and installing cutting-edge self-storage security solutions. Then, consider replacing unit doors (especially the in-demand roll-up doors). Once you’ve taken care of the high-impact renovations, applya fresh coat of paint. What may seem like a minor change could make a world of difference.
Not only do these rennovations improve the customer service experience and reduce the risks associated with self-storage, they’ll also boost your facility’s resale value.
Self Storage Facility Maintenance Tasks
Self storage properties require a series of tasks, from checking unit doors to ensuring that lighting fixtures are operational. But the good news is that regular facility maintenance can help you save money in the long run.
By addressing minor issues before they grow into bigger problems, owners can prevent costly repairs. Here are some ways to protect your investment:
Cleaning and Pest Control
Cleaning isn’t just about sweeping floors and wiping down surfaces. It’s about ensuring the storage units are safe, functional, and presentable.
Essential cleaning jobs for maintaining a self-storage facility include:
- Ensuring walkways and interior hallways are clear
- Properly storing equipment
- Cleaning up debris and spillage
- Safely storing flammable materials and hazardous substances
Tenants expect their stored items to be safe from water damage and pests. If a renter spots mouse droppings or signs of water damage, this could send them running for the hills.
Security System Maintenance
Safety is crucial. Every self storage facility owner should ensure their site has:
- Functioning fire extinguishers
- Updated fire alarms
- Clear emergency exits
- Updated signs instructing occupants what to do in case of an emergency
For example, integrating security cameras deters potential criminals and assures tenants of the facility’s commitment to security.
Regularly inspecting and maintaining security systems like CCTV cameras and alarm systems helps detect potential security breaches and assure tenants and potential buyers that their belongings are in good hands.
Inspecting the locks on each storage unit and maintaining proper lighting is also crucial in a self-storage facility success.
Structural Repairs and Upkeep
Regular roof inspections can help identify leaks, rust, and mold, allowing for timely repairs and preventing further roof damage.
Well-functioning doors provide easy access for tenants and contribute to the facility’s overall security. To ensure the smooth operation of storage unit doors, you’ll need to put the following maintenance tasks on your to-do list (or your support staff members’ to-do list):
- Lubricate roll-up doors
- Inspect and adjust springs on older self-storage doors
- Keep door tracks clean
Structural repairs and upkeep may also include climate control checks, including:
- Thermostat controls
- HVAC filter inspection
- Humidity testing in climate-controlled units
- Vents and air circulation system checks
- HVAC checks for potential refrigerant leaks
The Role of Technology in Self-Storage Maintenance
Technology is integral in the maintenance of self-storage facilities with benefits such as automation, remote management tools, and smart storage devices.
Automation solutions can facilitate maintenance tasks, including scheduling, task assignment, and reporting. You can even offer customers online tools and self-service options as one of your amenities.
By implementing remote management tools in self-storage maintenance, facility owners can keep a close eye on their property and address any issues as soon as they arise, ensuring a secure and well-maintained facility and even allowing owners to manage multiple locations more efficiently.
Tech tools for your property include:
- Smart entry systems
- Facility management software
- IoT (Internet of Things) sensors
- Drone technology for periodic facility surveillance
- Smart locks which can be controlled remotely and can notify owners of any tampering
- AI-powered security cameras
Consider partnering with a top-notch, third-party maintenance provider. Recruting a professional to aid in the management of your storage facility site will free up time in your schedule to boost your facility’s profitability.
Seasonal Self Storage Facility Tasks
Every self storage facility owner should maintain an exhaustive to-do list with the tasks above, as well as a list of seasonal tasks and ones that should be performed semi-annually.
Depending on the region, seasonal tasks might vary depending on the weather conditions. For example:
Snow removal
Snowfall can obstruct entries and exits and create slip hazards, requiring snow and ice removal.
Pro tip: In cold regions, ensuring units are adequately insulated and protected against frost can prevent damage to customers’ stored items.
Sun Damage Prevention
A sun-scorched parking lot can deteriorate faster, requiring more frequent repair, resurfacing, or repainting of lot lines.
Pro tip: Hot summers may require units with climate control features or enhanced insulation.
Waterlogging Prevention
Regions prone to heavy rain or floods should prioritize maintaining drainage systems to prevent waterlogging.
Wind-proofing
Areas with strong winds may need additional fastenings for signage, reinforced roof structures, and frequent checks for debris that can block entry points or damage doors.
Leaf removal
Especially in areas with many trees, autumn can lead to a significant accumulation of leaves that clog drains, present slip hazards in the parking lot, and hide other debris. Regular sweeping and removal are crucial.
Other Items for Your To-Do List
- A simple parking lot sweep after a storm or during fall can improve curb appeal, ensuring it remains welcoming for existing and potential customers.
- Using a power washer occasionally, especially on building exteriors, can rejuvenate its appearance.
- Ensure your dumpster area is clean and well-organized to discourage pests.
- Conduct regular rounds and make notes of anything that needs special attention. (For instance, vacant units might need a different maintenance rhythm than occupied ones. Are there obstructions at specific storage units? Is there other debris accumulating in areas less frequented?)
Finally, don’t limit your facility maintenance checklist to routine items. Always make room for other tasks that might emerge from evolving customer needs, the latest trends in the self-storage industry, or unforeseen circumstances.
Final Thoughts
By implementing a plan for the regular maintenance of your property, prioritizing tasks, allocating resources, monitoring progress, leveraging technology, and investing in staff training, facility owners can ensure that their self-storage facility remains well-maintained, secure, and profitable.
If you’re looking to increase the profitability of your storage unit business, use peer-to-peer storage marketplaces like Neighbor to fill vacancies.
With Neighbor’s platform, attract clients who are on the lookout for convenient storage units nearby. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is storage maintenance?
Storage maintenance includes the following: inspecting storage units, repairing units, ensuring clean storage spaces, and maximizing the safety and accessibility of stored items.
Proper maintenance of storage facilities prevents damage, infestations, or security breaches to safeguard the property and its users. It also extends the facility’s lifespan.
Why is storage maintenance important?
Storage maintenance is crucial to ensure the safety and longevity of items stored while enhancing the facility’s usability, appeal, and value to maximize your investment.
