There are new technologies designed for self-storage owners to make business easier. A smart, calculated approach to trying out new technology and opportunities for automation is the way to go so that you’re not spending money unnecessarily.
One new automation option to consider is smart locks. Currently, many self storage businesses use a traditional pad lock system on their units. Smart locks are a new way to offer a better customer experience while also using data to grow your business. Let’s look at what these smart locks can do.
What’s a smart lock?
A smart lock is an automated locking system that allows tenants to access their unit using an app on their phone that sends a signal to the smart lock on their unit to open it. The smart lock is just one further step in the automation process that allows for a contactless experience.
When a tenant completes the on boarding process online, they are supplied with a unique code or signal that is sent from their smartphone app to the smart lock to unlock it. Whenever they need to access their unit, they open the app to unlock the door. Hotels offer this feature now where you can check in early through your phone and receive a digital key through an app to unlock the door to your room.
Why are smart locks beneficial?
Many self-storage owners spend a great amount of time on boarding new tenants, cutting locks when necessary, changing locks when rent is unpaid, and other similar tasks. Smart locks provide a new opportunity to work smarter, not harder. Rather than having to change a lock every time rent is unpaid, the smart lock automatically locks preventing the tenant from accessing their belongings. Once the rent is paid, the smart lock is operational again.
Another time they are useful is when tenants arrive and have forgotten their keys. Normally, an owner would have to cut the lock from the door and the tenant would replace the lock. The smart lock eliminates the need for this because access is available on your phone – and who goes anywhere without their phone?
Finally, upon moving out, the locks would need to change for the next tenant. The smart lock system makes this process simple as well so that owners and managers can spend time engaging with customers or completing other necessary tasks. While an owner or manager would still need to walk through and make sure the unit is clear, the process to remove access and assign it to someone else is automated and simple.
Another beneficial safety feature
Smart locks add several layers of security for owners because they enable tracking of who goes into a unit, who is on the property and heat detection on property. Using smart locks can really upgrade your property security in many ways.
When a smart lock is used to access the property through the gate, it creates a log of traffic on the property to know who is there, what time they arrived and what time they left.
When a smart lock is used to access a unit, the same log of traffic is created to know who entered the unit and when they left. When exiting a unit, the door must also be locked.
Finally, the back of many smart locks have enhanced features like thermal motion sensor, owners and managers would be notified of any attempt to break or if there was heat in a unit that could indicate a fire.
Smart locks provide an added layer of security on a property. Additionally, they can be a bonus feature on “smart units” to provide the opportunity to upsell. This can be a great way to test the waters before adding smart locks to every unit. Take the leap and add to a percentage of units on your property. Offer these units as “smart units with digital keys” for a slight price increase. This will give you an idea of how popular and preferred smart units might be.
At Coastal Storage, we provide expert service and consultation on self-storage acquisition and ownership. We work with our investors to create a strong portfolio of properties. Our team would love to work with you. Call us today at 904-591-0140 to work with our team of self-storage experts.