Quick Answer
The five non-negotiable security features for RV storage are: perimeter fencing, electronic gate access, 24/7 video surveillance, adequate lighting, and on-site management. Beyond the facility's security, add your own hitch lock, wheel lock, and comprehensive insurance. Never rely on the facility's insurance to cover your RV - it almost certainly does not.
Essential Security Features Ranked
Not all security features are equal. Here is how to evaluate a facility's security from most to least important.
| Security Feature |
Importance |
What to Look For |
| Electronic Gate Access |
Critical |
Individual codes per tenant, access logs, auto-close timer |
| Video Surveillance |
Critical |
24/7 recording, 30+ day retention, covers all areas |
| Perimeter Fencing |
Critical |
6+ feet tall, barbed or razor wire top, no gaps |
| Lighting |
High |
LED flood lights, no dark corners, motion-activated perimeter |
| On-Site Management |
High |
Staff on premises during business hours, responsive to issues |
| Alarm System |
Good |
Perimeter alarms, gate breach alerts, monitored system |
| Security Patrols |
Good |
Regular drive-throughs by security company or staff |
What Good Security Actually Looks Like
Gate and Access Control
The gate is your first line of defense. Here is what separates good from bad:
- Good: Electronic keypad with unique codes per tenant, automatic closing on a timer, gate log that tracks who enters and when
- Bad: Shared code used by all tenants, manual gates that stay open, no access logging
- Red flag: Gate propped open during business hours, damaged gate that does not close properly
Video Surveillance
Cameras deter theft and provide evidence if something happens. Ask these questions:
- How many cameras cover the facility? (At least one per aisle/row)
- Are they recording 24/7 or only on motion detection?
- How long is footage retained? (30 days minimum is standard)
- Can you access footage if you file a claim? (Important for insurance)
- Are cameras visible? (Visible cameras are stronger deterrents)
Fencing and Perimeter
Walk the perimeter during your facility tour. Check for:
- Fencing at least 6 feet tall with barbed wire or razor wire on top
- No gaps, holes, or sections that have been bent or cut
- Concrete or paved ground beneath the fence (prevents digging under)
- No trees or structures adjacent to the fence that could be used to climb over
Lighting
Visit the facility after dark before signing. Poor lighting is a major red flag.
- Every row and aisle should be lit with no dark spots
- LED flood lights are ideal - they provide bright, consistent light at low operating cost
- Perimeter lighting should illuminate the fence line and any entry points
- Motion-activated lights near the gate and building entries add an extra layer
Security Measures You Should Add
Do not rely solely on the facility. Add these layers of protection to your own RV.
| Security Add-On |
Cost |
What It Does |
| Hitch Lock |
$30-$80 |
Prevents anyone from hooking up and towing your RV |
| Wheel Lock/Boot |
$40-$100 |
Visible deterrent, prevents the RV from being moved |
| GPS Tracker |
$100-$300 + $10-$25/mo |
Real-time location tracking, movement alerts, recovery aid |
| Deadbolt Door Locks |
$20-$60 |
Upgrades weak factory locks on RV entry doors |
| Comprehensive Insurance |
$500-$1,500/yr |
Covers theft, fire, vandalism, and weather damage |
10 Security Questions to Ask Before Signing
- Do you have 24/7 video surveillance and how long is footage kept?
- Does each tenant get a unique access code, and is access logged?
- What type of fencing surrounds the property and is it inspected regularly?
- Is the facility lit at night? Can I visit after dark to check?
- Have there been any theft or break-in incidents in the past year?
- Is there on-site management or a live-in manager?
- Does your insurance cover my RV, or do I need my own policy?
- Are there any additional security features like alarms or patrols?
- Can I add my own locks and security devices to my space?
- What is the process if my RV is damaged or stolen while stored here?
If a facility hesitates to answer any of these questions, that is a red flag. Transparent facilities are proud of their security and happy to show it off. Use our size matcher to find verified, secure facilities near you.
Insurance: The Security Feature Most Owners Overlook
Even at the most secure facility, incidents can happen. Your insurance is your financial safety net.
- The facility's insurance does NOT cover your RV. Their policy covers the building and their liability. Your vehicle is your responsibility.
- Maintain comprehensive RV coverage. This covers theft, fire, vandalism, falling objects, and weather damage - all risks present during storage.
- Consider dropping collision and liability. If you are not driving the RV during storage, you can save 30-50% by suspending these coverages.
- Document everything before storage. Take detailed photos of the interior, exterior, and any pre-existing damage. Record the mileage and note the condition of tires, roof, and seals.
- Budget $500-$1,500/year for a comprehensive storage-period RV policy depending on the value of your rig.
Find Secure RV Storage
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RV Storage Security FAQ
What security features should an RV storage facility have?
At minimum, look for: perimeter fencing (6+ feet with barbed or razor wire), individual electronic gate access with unique codes, 24/7 video surveillance with recording and at least 30-day retention, adequate lighting throughout the facility, and on-site or nearby management. Premium facilities add motion sensors, alarm systems, and regular security patrols.
Are RVs commonly stolen from storage facilities?
RV theft from storage facilities is relatively uncommon at well-secured facilities but does happen. According to NICB data, approximately 5,000-7,000 RVs are stolen annually in the US, with a significant portion taken from driveways and unsecured lots rather than gated facilities. Choosing a facility with proper security reduces your risk dramatically.
Does the storage facility's insurance cover my RV?
No, in almost all cases the facility's insurance only covers their building and property - not your RV. You need your own comprehensive RV insurance policy to cover theft, fire, vandalism, and weather damage while in storage. Budget $500-$1,500/year for a storage-period RV insurance policy depending on your RV's value.
Should I use my own locks on a stored RV?
Yes, always add your own security measures. Use a high-quality hitch lock ($30-$80) to prevent someone from towing your RV, a wheel lock/boot ($40-$100) as a visible deterrent, and deadbolt locks on all entry doors. Some owners also add a GPS tracker ($100-$300 plus monthly service) for recovery in case of theft.
Is indoor RV storage more secure than outdoor?
Generally yes. Indoor storage adds a locked building as an extra barrier beyond the gate and fence. Your RV is hidden from view, making it harder for thieves to case. However, a well-secured outdoor facility with good cameras, lighting, and access control can be just as safe as a poorly managed indoor one. Evaluate each facility individually.