Let's talk about self storage.

communities_1.jpg
 View Only
  • 1.  Civil Law Suit for Security efforts

    Posted 20 days ago
    Has anyone been sued in a civil suit for not providing “enough” security?

    ---------------------------------
    Cindy Pullin
    Owner
    Sentry RV Storage
    Kyle TX
    (512) 983-6617
    ---------------------------------


  • 2.  RE: Civil Law Suit for Security efforts

    Posted 20 days ago

    Some years back (as I recall) the TSSA legal beagles put out a blurb warning facilities to not use the terms "secure" or "security" in their advertising as a result of some court case where the facility was held liable (by not providing it).  

    From a layman's standpoint, I queried an AI search engine the following question:

    "Is there facility liability when using the terms "secure" and "security" in self storage advertising in Texas?"

    this is NOT legal advice (the citation sources are at the bottom)

    Liability for Using "Secure" and "Security" in Advertising

    Legal Implications

    In Texas, self-storage facilities can face liability if they use terms like "secure" and "security" in their advertising without meeting the implied standards of safety and protection. This means that if a facility claims to be secure but fails to implement adequate security measures, it could be held legally responsible for any resulting issues.

    Key Considerations

    • Truth in Advertising: Operators must ensure that their security measures are consistent with the claims made in their marketing materials.
    • Potential Legal Issues: Misleading advertising can lead to lawsuits or claims from customers who feel misled about the safety of their stored items.

    Recommended Practices

    To mitigate liability risks, self-storage operators should:

    • Conduct Regular Security Assessments: Ensure that all advertised security features are in place and functioning properly.
    • Provide Clear Information: Be transparent about the specific security measures implemented, such as surveillance cameras, gated access, and on-site personnel.

    • Train Staff: Ensure that employees understand the security features and can communicate them accurately to customers.

    By adhering to these practices, self-storage facilities can better protect themselves from potential legal repercussions related to their advertising claims.



    ------------------------------
    Edward Holman
    Deep Ellum Self Storage
    Dallas TX
    (214) 426-3337
    ------------------------------



  • 3.  RE: Civil Law Suit for Security efforts

    Posted 20 days ago
    We have not been sued for not having enough security. Here are things you may check to see how strong their case might be:

    If you are on the TSSA lease (actually signed by the tenant) that is a strong shield against owner liability-as it makes it clear that tenants store at their own risk

    If you offered tenant contents protection that you can show the tenant declined, another point in your favor

    Check what your signage/website/advertising states about what you offer in terms of security-if you are overstating what you provide such as saying 24 hour surveillance when you do not have it or have cameras/gates that are not working and have been consistently not working, then that gives the tenant a good argument

    Above comments are based on 30 years of operations experience, not legal advice.

    Mike Gately, CPM
    President Emeritus
    210-508-6450
    Trusted Self Storage Professionals






  • 4.  RE: Civil Law Suit for Security efforts

    Posted 20 days ago
    Our facility is an open RV and Boat storage.

    ---------------------------------
    Cindy Pullin
    Owner
    Sentry RV Storage
    Kyle TX
    (512) 983-6617
    ---------------------------------





  • 5.  RE: Civil Law Suit for Security efforts

    Posted 14 days ago
    I also own a Rv and Boat Storage facility. When you say open, does that mean you have a gate that has to have a code or not? Do you have cameras? I am wondering what you mean when you say it is an open RV and boat storage. I am having all of the words, security and secure taken off my website currently to make sure that this doesn’t happen. We do use the TSSA Rental agreement. Let me know I’m interested in what is happening with you. Dawn Tucker R Storage Brownwood, Tx

    ---------------------------------
    Dawn Tucker
    R Storage
    Brownwood TX
    (325) 203-9120
    ---------------------------------





  • 6.  RE: Civil Law Suit for Security efforts

    Posted 14 days ago
    Dawn, I would say...if you have these functions...
    1. If you have a gate with a key pad and you are supposed to only have access with a paid up account and gate code:  I would say: Controlled Gate Access.
    2. Do you have restricted gate access hours or is it 24/7 controlled access (meaning you have a gate code)...if so, I would say: Controlled Access 24/7
    3. If you have security cameras that work.  I would say: Smile You're on Camera

    All of this states a feature and something that makes your property better but makes no guarantees or promises.

    This is just me and how I would state things.  Good luck.  JMc

    John McAfee  214-923-0070 - John@TheStoragePlace.ORG






  • 7.  RE: Civil Law Suit for Security efforts

    Posted 14 days ago
    Thank you sir






  • 8.  RE: Civil Law Suit for Security efforts

    Posted 19 days ago
    Never.  Thank goodness.

    Sad society that will sue for all the things.

    Good luck in your defense.

    John McAfee  214-923-0070 - John@TheStoragePlace.ORG