Self Storage Facility Builders London

When we are asked by our clients to build a storage facility, there is typically much more than just the amount of space at issue. The type of product being stored (high value or sensitive), the level of risk associated with the item(s) being stored, and the level of control required over the environment are also significant factors. We have worked with operators of storage facilities that house all types of products, including high-value items, sensitive documents, and regulated products that require strict control of access, monitoring, and compliance. When these types of projects are undertaken, the building itself becomes an integral part of the storage facility's overall security. Warehouse Construction Contractors designs and delivers secure storage facilities based on how they will operate rather than how they appear on a plan.

Self Storage Builders

What We Do

We take care of every aspect of the build. This will include:
-Carrying out a site assessment to identify whether your plot is suitable
-Preparing designs for planning purposes and providing layouts that maximise lettable area
-Constructing the facility (this may include steel-framed internal stores, drive-up units or container-based facilities)
-Providing a fit-out service which will cover all aspects, including the installation of security systems, access control systems, signage and lighting
-Completing the final handover process when the facility is complete and ready to be opened and commence generating income

You won't have to worry about managing the project yourself, as we will take care of every step from initial consultation through to the opening of your new self-storage facility.

The UK Self Storage Industry

There is no doubt that the UK self-storage market is expanding rapidly. The overall amount of self-storage space available in the UK currently stands at approximately 64 million square feet. In addition, the total turnover of the UK self-storage market was reported to be £1.2 billion in 2024. Although the UK has seen significant growth in the self-storage sector, there are still ample opportunities for further development. At present, the UK has only 0.73 square feet of self-storage space per person, whereas the USA has 9.44 square feet per person. This gap represents a prime opportunity for you to expand upon. Therefore, if you are considering developing a self-storage facility, this appears to be an opportune moment to do so. As specialists in self-storage construction, we provide self-storage facilities to a range of customers, including investors, developers, and businesses throughout the UK.

Who We Build For

Investors and Property Developers
Self-storage is one of the most stable and resilient forms of commercial real estate within the UK. As a result, many investors are attracted to the defensive nature of the income generated by self-storage properties, the low operating costs associated with these investments, and the increasing demand for self-storage services. According to CBRE UK, if you are seeking to invest in a form of commercial property that will deliver predictable returns, then self-storage should definitely be given consideration.
Businesses
Are you running out of space? Are you considering storing your business's goods, or would you like to create a self-storage facility to generate rental income? Whatever your requirement, we can assist you in making the best possible use of the land or commercial property that you currently own.
Individuals and Landowners
Do you have any unused land? A self-storage facility could provide steady monthly income from land that previously generated little to no revenue. We will also assist you in determining whether creating a self-storage facility on your land would be a viable investment before you commit to any development.

Why do we use Self-Storage?

Self-storage is an easy-to-understand business model. You create storage units. People lease those storage units. You collect the rental income. It is simply about creating a space for others to store their belongings and collecting money from them. No need to worry about selling complex products or managing large groups of employees. According to Cushman & Wakefield, self-storage space across the UK has increased by 7.2%. This can be explained by the increasing number of potential new sites on the horizon. With a growing number of institutions investing in the self-storage sector. Janus stated in their report that 44% of operators currently plan to invest in new locations. Operators within the industry believe in the concept of self-storage. If they believe in it, it's likely to be successful.

What type of facility can we develop?

Internal self-storage facilities. (Multi-story units, each unit is individually lockable) High volume. High revenue per square foot. Ideally suited for urban areas.
Drive-up units. (Ground-level units, which provide direct access for customers) Trade professionals and businesses use this format. Lower development costs. Faster completion.
Container-based storage. (Flexible, cost-effective.) Useful when obtaining planning permission for permanent structures is difficult. As such, more operators are using container storage to circumvent planning restrictions that limit access to certain markets. CBRE UK

We will assist you in determining the type of facility to develop at your site, your budget, and the demand for self-storage at your location.

How Much Will It Cost to Build a Secure Storage Facility?

The cost of constructing a secure storage facility can range greatly depending on the extent of the specification. However, in general, a secure storage facility will cost more than a standard warehouse build.

Typically, the additional costs associated with a secure storage facility are related to;

-The use of more robust structural and envelope details,

-Additional mechanical and electrical (M&E) elements,

-Fire protection systems,

-Site works and perimeter security elements.

We discuss the general costs associated with a warehouse build in more detail elsewhere. The most important aspect of constructing a secure storage facility is that the cost of implementing the security elements is not simply the addition of the security elements themselves, but also the extent to which those security requirements are incorporated into the design. If done correctly, this will eliminate unnecessary rework and ensure that the project remains within budget.

FAQ

What is the time frame for building a self storage facility?

Time frames vary by the size and style of the facility. Container based facilities can take only a few months to build, while a full internal multi storey build can take anywhere from 9-18 months from obtaining planning consent. We will provide you with an honest and realistic time frame when we first meet, not an overly optimistic figure.

Do I need planning permission?

Generally, yes. However, some container-based units may fall within permitted development rights (depending on where the unit is sited and what class of use the land has been designated). We have a team of planning consultants that specialise in the self-storage industry and will assist us in the early stages of the project.

How much will it cost to build my self-storage facility?

Costs will vary greatly depending on the site, size, and type of build. For example, a small container-based unit can be significantly cheaper than a larger, internally built unit. Due to the varying nature of each site, we do not provide a set price; however, once we have evaluated your plot, we will provide you with a detailed cost estimate.

What size of plot do I require for a self storage facility?

There is no definitive answer as to the size of plot required for a self-storage facility, but generally, most viable self-storage plots range from approximately 0.25 acres. While smaller plots may be suitable for a container-based operation, larger plots may be suitable for an internal or mixed format build. We have experience working with a variety of plots. Please contact us, and we will inform you as to the potential capacity of your plot.

Is self-storage a good investment opportunity currently in the UK?

Self-storage provides a solid investment opportunity. The UK Self Storage Market is forecast to contiapproximately 5.5% annually through to 2030. Grand View Research. There are multiple demand drivers, such as moving house, overflow space for businesses, students, etc. The diversity of these demand drivers reduces reliance on any one customer type, making it more robust than many other commercial property types.

Can I develop Self Storage on Commercial or Industrial Land?

Yes, often. Industrial Land in particular lends itself to Self Storage due to the product's open-space requirements. We will evaluate your site and provide guidance on whether it is likely to be feasible from both a planning and construction standpoint.

What do I do with the facility once I have taken possession of it?

You choose. Some clients manage their own facilities. Other clients appoint a management company to oversee the day-to-day operations of the facility. Regardless of which route you choose, we will be able to assist you. Our role is to deliver a facility ready to trade.

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