Escaping Security Nightmares

Choosing a security vendor with a proven track record and experience installing specialized systems can make the difference between a smooth-running facility and an ongoing maintenance nightmare.

Storage security and access-control systems are complex and require intricate wiring. Only an experienced security vendor has the skills to install them properly and avoid potential pitfalls. When shopping for security providers, keep in mind the following concerns.

Licensing

State licensure requirements vary, so make sure your provider holds current and proper licenses to work at your site. In California, contractors working on electrical systems producing 90 volts or less are required to hold a C7 low-voltage license. For systems producing more than 90 volts, contractors must hold a C10 electrical license.

For 24-hour monitoring of a security system, youll need a vendor with an alarm company operators license. By law, your security provider must be properly licensed; however, licensure doesnt always guarantee quality work. Thats where the next step becomes important.

Get References

Ask security providers for several referencesincluding names, phone numbers, addresses, and the date and nature of the installation. Call all those listed and ask the following questions:

Schedule a visit to one or more of the referenced facilities and preview the security system. This personalized visit gives you a great opportunity to get insider tips from the site manager who has been using the system.

Attend a Tradeshow

Self-storage tradeshows are rich with resources and well attended by companies providing access control, CCTV, management software, etc. This is a low-pressure environment where you can view a variety of offerings and talk directly with manufacturers. Ask them to recommend qualified installers since the manufacturers themselves are neither contractors nor installers.

Hiring and Working With Vendors

Bringing in a vendor early enables him to develop working relationships with other contractors and can save time and money on your project. A professional can provide critical design input to the architect. Once he is provided with site plans, he should submit a price proposal and begin working on modified site plans indicating placement of conduit for equipment. He may also offer suggestions on office design pertaining to security features. Finally, he can communicate with your electrician about wiring requirements.

Its always best to hire an experienced vendoreven if it means finding one out of your immediate area. Try to develop a relationship with the installer to facilitate a smooth process. Your security installer may have to make decisions requiring your input, so your availability is crucial. Its equally important for him to be readily accessible when you have questions or concerns.

Make sure you receive a fully itemized and understandable proposal. With a detailed proposal, youll be able to inventory the items to ensure youre getting what youre paying for, leaving no surprises for the end.

Pricing

A full security system may include gate keypads, elevator controls, individual door alarms, video cameras, digital video recorders, music/ PA system, intercom, office alarm, site graphics, video display monitors, wire, connectors, mounts and fittings. Determining the cost of equipment and installation depends on the facility size, number of cameras installed, type of access control, etc. The proposal submitted to you should fall between any of the following parameters:

Selecting a security vendor is a crucial part of developing and operating any self-storage facility. Conduct your search carefully and youll find the best-suited provider for your project. 

Robert Nattenberg leads the sales team for Pacific Rim Security, a security-installation company in the San Francisco Bay area. For more information, call 206.230.5630; e-mail [email protected]. 

For more information about self-storage security, check out "Security: Choosing Tools, Protecting Your Investment," a 32-page e-book available through the Self-Storage Training Insititute. Click here for more info!