Managing Vagrancy in Self-Storage

Managing Vagrancy in Self Storage

I’d like to discuss a challenging topic: managing vagrancy in self-storage facilities. This is not an easy subject, but I believe it’s essential for our industry to address and manage it with awareness of the potential consequences.

When examining vagrancy and homelessness in America, it’s crucial to consider where these individuals tend to relocate. Statistically, we see that states like California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida, which have warmer climates, often have higher numbers of vagrants and people experiencing homelessness.

Once you allow individuals to engage in activities on your property, word spreads, and others are likely to join them. If you permit people to live in, work out of, or hang out at the storage facility, you will inevitably attract more individuals doing the same. Initially, managing vagrancy in self-storage can be manageable, but once it begins, it can escalate quickly, leading to a level of disorder.

Watch for Signs of Vagrancy

You know the importance of being observant, and that’s where I want to start. It’s crucial to watch for signs that people are living in storage units. For example, you might notice customers who enter the gate late in the evening and don’t exit before your office closes. They may still be inside after hours.

One option is to involve the police, especially if there are indications of drug use on the property. I’ve encountered situations where individuals were using heroin and other drugs in the storage units. These scenarios can be problematic, and if the police are called, they can handle situations where individuals are found with drugs or are selling them from the storage space. However, it’s essential to note that there are instances when the police may be unable to assist with managing vagrancy in self-storage.

When it comes to fence breaches, be vigilant about any backpacks or junk that you might see around the area. If you notice these, it could indicate a problem. It’s essential to remain vigilant and be alert for signs of trespassing. Interestingly, many people attempt to enter by throwing rugs over the barbed wire. They may feel that if they can’t get in through the gate, they can climb over the fence. Often, they leave the rugs in place, and the property manager doesn’t take any action to remove them, allowing continued access through this method, especially during the evenings.

Additionally, pay attention to step stools or other items that could help someone get over the fence. Look for signs like dog excrement; people experiencing homelessness may toss their dogs over the fence or bring them along when they trespass. If you notice this, it may indicate that they have been using the property overnight.

Living in a Storage Space Poses Risks

It’s important to remember that there are dangers associated with this situation, regardless of how tidy or organized the makeshift living space might appear. Properties are not intended for residential use, and the presence of individuals living in these spaces poses significant risks. They may heat food using unsafe methods or use heaters indoors. It’s also common for them to smoke, which can create fire hazards.

This situation jeopardizes not only the individuals staying there but also the safety of others and their belongings. Tragically, there have been instances where lives have been lost due to such circumstances. While smaller storage units may seem like a cheap shelter option—about $45 per unit—using them as living spaces is fundamentally unsafe.

Storage operators must address the issue of individuals living in storage units, especially during cold weather. While it’s a challenging situation, it’s essential to contact authorities for assistance.

How Can You Manage the Vagrancy Issue?

One of the strategies I employ is to limit the amount of time individuals have access to their storage units. I overlock the unit when they leave, so once they exit, they cannot return until the next morning. This way, no one is present overnight to use electricity or attempt to prepare food.

I have personally dealt with several fires in self-storage facilities caused by people attempting to live in their units, resulting in the loss of entire buildings. This experience has made me more vigilant in managing these situations.

Storage operators need to strike a balance between being compassionate and acknowledging the risks involved. This not only puts the individual at risk but also jeopardizes the safety of others. We must handle these situations as effectively as possible.