Crime Free Mini Storage
The Crime Free Mini-Storage Program was designed to help renters, owners, and managers of mini-storage properties keep drugs and other illegal activity off their property. This program is designed to be easy, yet very effective in reducing the incidents of crime in mini-storage properties.
The program utilizes a unique three-part approach that ensures the crime prevention goal, while maintaining an approach, which is very customer friendly. Phase One involves a four-hour seminar presented by the police and fire departments. Phase Two will certify that the mini-storage facility has met the security requirements of the Peoria Police Department. After full certification, the managers will be granted the use of large metal signs for display on the property. The management will also be granted the use of the police department's program logo in all advertisements.
Benefits
A stable, more satisfied tenant base Increased demand in storage facilities with a reputation for active management
Lower maintenance and repair costs
Peace of mind that comes from spending more time on routine management and less time on crisis control
Appreciative renters
Reduced criminal activity Increased property recovery rate by police
When criminals and other destructive tenants operate out of mini-storage properties, landlords and tenants pay a high price.
That Price May Include
Property damage arising from abuse, burglaries and police raid
Fire resulting from storage of dangerous material
Civil penalties, including temporary closure of the property -- or even property seizure
Loss of rent during the eviction and repair periods
Fear and frustration when dealing with dangerous and threatening tenants
Increased resentment and anger between renters and property managers
The loss of other valued renters
Decrease in demand for storage units
Thousands of dollars in stolen property.
Prevention Techniques
Preparing the property so it does not attract crime
Applicant screening procedures
Rental agreements
Crime Free Lease Addendum
Warning signs of illegal activity
Actions you must take if you discover illegal activity at your property
Proven Management Techniques
On-going management
Spotting illegal activity
Evictions Working with the police
How to become a pro-active property manager
Crisis resolution
Property Protection
Resource Materials
Renter's Obligation To Provide
Valid Photo I.D.
Social Security Number
Date of Birth
Current Address and Telephone Number
Emergency Telephone Numbers
A police accepted padlock for use on the storage locker
NOTE: Renter must also maintain a current inventory of contents inside the storage locker
Property Manager Obligations
Attend the three hour training course
Require tenants to use police accepted padlocks on the storage locker
Require the use of break away tape on all locks
Keep all empty lockers locked
Post official "No Trespassing" signs in visible locations on the property and prosecute all violations
Patrol the property at least daily to deter and discover criminal activity
Provide police random access 24 hours a day to storage facility to patrol the property and walk through facility with drug detection dogs
Provide the police department's Criminal Investigations Bureau (CIB) with monthly lists of new tenants
Require renters to sign the Crime Free Lease Addendum
For information on future training dates, times, and locations, please contact your local Crime Free Coordinator 623-773-7099.
