.svg)
Whether you run or manage a self-storage facility, your important focus is always reducing risk and maximizing uptime. Errors can be damaging to everything, whether it's the electronic security system not working right, the leak that destroyed stored items, or the spike of temperatures that ruined very sensitive inventory. Downtime or damage to goods can, indeed, be extremely inconvenient problems when they arise, not only affecting your bottom line but also affecting customer trust and your risk of insurance premiums.
That’s why it’s essential to think about preventive asset monitoring systems from the very beginning—during the planning and building stages of your facility. With their intuitive software support, against potential problems, they aim to prevent a catastrophic outcome by alerting the user at that very moment when anything would happen.
In this article, we will provide the essentials on the key components of asset monitoring that are worth implementing in storage facilities and how to approach their integration during the planning and building stages.
What makes self-storages smart?
The term "smart self-storage" refers to a modern approach to storage facilities, which are equipped with new technologies to bring efficiency, standard security, and quality service to the customer. Smart self-storage units involve components, including connected devices, IoT sensors, smart locks, mobile apps, and automation to provide web-enabled monitoring and operation control.
These technologies simplify the workflow and create better methods in the everyday running of self-service storage units, thereby making it easier to manage in areas where physical attendance at storage facilities can no longer be demanded. For the facility admin or owner, this creates opportunities for higher profit margins and increased operational efficiency.
Why asset monitoring should be part of your initial plans for self-storage building
Today, self-storage is commonly perceived more than just about storage units; it really is about satisfying the customers with a safe, efficient, and reliable environment. Indeed, with over 50,000 storage facilities all over the U.S., self-storage has never been so competitive. A great number of customers who utilize your services probably look forward to the highest security and hassle-free service. Preventive asset monitoring guarantees your property delivers these customer satisfactions, while also outshines any competition.
Remote monitoring provides an almost immediate alert to issues ranging from security violations to temperature variations, allowing you to act very quickly. A small issue when unnoticed might worsen quickly to become a devastating cost. For instance, a minor leak would cost a few hundred dollars if detected early; missed, however, it could incur thousands in costs to repair damaged goods, on top of the erosion of customer trust.
It goes without saying that well-kept self-storage facilities do not just please customers, but also bring about profits to the business. Industry reports consistently show that self-storage operators who invest in preventive maintenance programs experience significant benefits, including lower emergency repair costs and higher customer retention rates. For instance, according to Marcus & Millichap, in 2024, the self-storage inventory in Washington, D.C. is projected to increase by 2.4%, with a particular concentration of deliveries in the Bethesda-Chevy Chase area. This surge in new supply is complemented by a 17% growth in apartment stock, further emphasizing the rising demand for high-quality, well-maintained self-storage facilities.
Considering all the factors discussed, it’s clear that delaying the integration of preventive asset monitoring would be unreasonable, as it offers significant advantages. That’s why the planning phase is the perfect time to incorporate these advanced systems, ensuring the protection of stored goods and long-term success.
Key areas to focus on during planning and building a storage facility
Remote asset monitoring system integration is not only about one-time set-up of all equipment. Instead, it must constitute setting a robust base for highly efficient and future-proofed storage facilities. The following are critical aspects to consider going forward for a comprehensive monitoring system:
1. Security and access control systems
2. Environmental monitoring to protect stored goods
3. Energy management and efficiency
4. Facility-wide monitoring for operational efficiency
Looking at all the components that make up a comprehensive monitoring system, it's clear that the best measures are is a multi-layered approach. It's not just about having the latest tech; it's about maintaining a safe and secure environment where tenants’ items are in good hands.
Security and access control systems
When it comes to self-storage, security is number one. Any failure in security systems can lead not just to direct losses but also to reputational damage. Customers entrust their valuable items to you. Therefore, their safety should be ensured in advance. Integration of security monitoring means avoiding theft, unauthorized access, and other potential issues even before they arise.
Key tools and sensors:
- Surveillance systems
Purpose: Continuous monitoring of each access point and of all common areas so that any suspicious activity or intrusion can be detected in real-time.
Tools: High-quality closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. - Access control systems
Purpose: Control the access of individuals into your facility, limiting them to the right people only.
Tools: Keycard access, biometric systems (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition). - Alarm systems
Purpose: Alert you instantly if anyone outside the parameters of permission attempts to gain access, thus reducing the chances of theft and vandalism.
Tools: Motion detectors, presence detectors, door/window sensors, intruder alarms.
Environmental monitoring to protect stored goods
Your clients stock everything from heat-sensitive items to perishable goods, storage for delicates, humidity- and water-sensitive items, and many more. Environmental monitoring systems should be introduced in the planning stage to safeguard these valuable assets against damage, allowing goods to be kept at their optimum settings.
Key tools and sensors:
- Temperature and humidity sensors
Purpose: Monitor the temperatures and humidity levels to ensure they stay within acceptable ranges to protect sensitive items
Tools: Digital thermometers, humidity sensors. - Water leak detection sensors
Purpose: Have an early detection of the water leak at HVAC systems, pipes, and under floors to prevent massive water damage.
Tools: Leak detection sensors, and moisture meters.
Energy management and efficiency
It all begins with controlling the energy consumption of the self-storage facility, the crucial moving factor in lowering operational costs and creating a productive environment. Everything from the lighting systems to HVAC units can have energy management tools that monitor, optimize, and alert any inefficiencies, making the storage facility cost-effective.
Key tools and sensors:
- Lighting control systems
Purpose: Based on the time of day or foot traffic, they automatically adjust and reduce energy consumption and prolong the life of lighting systems.
Tools: Motion-sensitive lights,and automated lighting systems. - HVAC monitoring systems
Purpose: Constant monitoring of climatic conditions in climate-controlled units to provide a safe storage condition while detecting system failures.
Tools: Temperature sensors, HVAC system monitors. - Energy consumption meters
Purpose: Controlling overall energy usage to detect deficiencies and help you make some adjustments where saving and environmental sustainability are concerned.
Tools: Smart meters.
Facility-wide monitoring for operational efficiency
Preventive monitoring systems go beyond just security and environmental factors. They also help streamline day-to-day operations. Monitoring traffic patterns, and door functionality, and maintaining critical systems in good working condition are essential to smooth, uninterrupted operations.
Preventive monitoring includes everything from security and environmental factors to routine operations. Whether they include monitoring patterns of traffic and ensuring the door functions correctly, all critical systems must be kept in good working order.
Key tools and sensors:
- Door status monitoring sensors
Purpose: Alerts the user if the door is left open or is not functioning correctly, preventing access from unauthorized sources or damage due to environmental changes, plus ensuring that doors are always functioning properly.
Tools: Magnetic door sensors, smart door systems. - Motion sensors for traffic flow
Purpose: Checks high traffic points, so that maintenance schedules are optimized to avoid congestion or overcrowding.
Tools: Passive infrared (PIR) sensors, ultrasonic motion detectors. - Maintenance alert systems
Purpose: Monitors the health of critical systems such as HVAC, lighting, and security cameras, and sends alerts when maintenance might be needed.
Tools: Vibration sensors, diagnostic monitors.
How to prepare for implementing asset monitoring when building storage units
For setting the base of your self-storage facility for success, it is integral to strategize how to implement the monitoring systems at the time of construction. Here are some practical steps to ensure the easy implementation.
A technology partner should be chosen as early as possible in the planning process for defining specific needs. A potential partner would assist in designing and setting up a system that integrates security, environmental monitoring, and operational efficiency.
Work together with your contractors for designing infrastructure that would facilitate asset monitoring systems, which would mean planning for power supply power cable and data cables, planned sensor placements, and networking configurations. The early planning assures that your systems are not majorly disrupted during the installation process.
Build the monitoring infrastructure with scalability in place. The growth of your facility will most probably mean more sensors, cameras, or systems. Flexibility will let you expand things easily later without extensive renovations.
Your construction team should familiarize itself with the technical aspects of your asset monitoring systems. Closely coordinate with contractors so that these systems can easily be integrated during construction. After the building phase, adding sensors and wiring is much more complex than doing so during that phase.
Given that asset monitoring systems will produce a substantial amount of valuable data, plans for storing, securing, and analyzing such data must be established. Work alongside your technology partner to develop a secured data management system that will enable you to track key metrics, receive alerts, and access data whenever required.
Prylada’s asset monitoring solution for storage unit business
Prylada provides a comprehensive asset monitoring system for self-storage facilities that increase safety, security, and operational effectiveness. The system is excellent for locating and preventing water leakage, monitoring environmental conditions, and guaranteeing the integrity of locks, thus permitting reduced downtime and minimizing the dangers of assets being destroyed.
Ideal for planning and building stages
The compact, wireless design allows Prylada’s monitoring solution for easy integration during the planning and building stages of self-storage facilities. Equally, the solution is flexible and can be installed post-construction in existing facilities.
24/7 remote monitoring for self-storage facilities
Prylada’s system provides round-the-clock monitoring of critical assets within your self-storage facility. Placed strategically throughout the facility, sensors constantly track vital parameters, such as locks, cash terminals, and environmental conditions (for example, temperature, and humidity). The collected data is then transmitted to a centralized web-based or mobile application, giving you full control and visibility no matter where you are.
Reliable, low-maintenance components
Our solution is built on durable, industrial-grade hardware designed to withstand the demanding environment of self-storage facilities. Prylada’s components are engineered for long-term reliability with minimal maintenance requirements, reducing the total cost of ownership.
Flexible access: Cloud or on-premises
Prylada offers flexibility in how you access your monitoring data. You can choose between storing your data on a private local network or in the cloud—depending on your security and accessibility preferences.
Seamless integration with third-party systems
Our API and standard industrial input/output connections make it easy to integrate Prylada’s monitoring system with your existing building management systems (BMS) or other third-party control systems.
Easy installation and scalability
Prylada’s lightweight, compact devices can be easily installed and transferred between sites, reducing setup time and operational disruptions. Wireless communication capabilities mean there’s no need for extra cables or complex wiring, and the sensors can be powered using ambient energy sources, further reducing installation costs.
By incorporating Prylada’s predictive asset monitoring solution into your self-storage facility plans, or upgrading your existing facility, you not only protect valuable assets and stored goods but also enhance your operational efficiency. It’s a smart, scalable investment that ensures real-time insights, seamless integration, and peace of mind for self-storage providers and their customers alike.
Conclusion
Your self-storage facility's success is dependent upon various factors, including giving suitable space for your customers and, at the same time, assuring a secure, dependable, and efficient environment.
By planning and implementing preventive asset monitoring systems during the building stage, you prevent damage to stored goods from environmental factors, reduce energy costs, and enhance security from day one. Proper planning will not only secure the investment but also improve customer satisfaction, increase trust, and give an edge in the increasing competitive environment.
.png)