There is no denying in saying that if you decide to build a storage facility in Texas, it can turn out to be a fruitful investment. But the condition is – it has to be done right! There are some entrepreneurs who jump into construction without any proper planning. This further leads to costly mistakes that could be avoided in the first place by partnering with a reputed construction company Texas.
But you don’t have to worry, because I am here with an article that will be your guiding light. If you are considering developing a storage facility, it is crucial for you to know what not to do. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.
Neglecting Proper Market Research
One of the biggest and most common mistakes that people usually make during the construction of a storage facility is failing to do proper market research. You have to keep one thing in mind – Texas is a vast state with different demands for storage based on location. Before you start with your project, don’t miss out on analyzing the local competition, customer needs, and occupancy rates in the area.
- Is there a demand for climate-controlled units?
- Are there existing storage facilities with high occupancy rates?
- What are the rental rates in the region?
Skipping this step can result in an underperforming facility with low occupancy and revenue.
Choosing the Wrong Location
Location plays a vital role in the storage business. Even if someone has the best-built facility, they will struggle if it is in an inaccessible or inconvenient location. Some of the common mistakes are:
- Finalizing a site with poor visibility or limited road access.
- Ignoring zoning regulations and local restrictions.
- Overlooking flood-prone areas or regions with extreme weather risks.
However, partnering with an experienced construction company in Texas ensures that your site selection aligns with long-term profitability and compliance requirements.
Skimping on Security Features
Let me ask you a question – what is your priority as a customer when choosing a storage facility? Security, right? So, this is exactly what your customers expect from you. If you compromise on security measures, you are the cause behind theft, vandalism, and dissatisfied tenants. You have to invest in security features like:
- 24/7 surveillance cameras
- Secure fencing and gated access
- Bright lighting throughout the facility
- Individual unit alarms and keypad entry systems
If you do not take these security features seriously and fail to implement strong security, you will make your facility less attractive to potential renters and increase liability risks.
Ignoring Local Building Codes and Permits
In Texas, there are some specific building codes and permit requirements that may vary by city and county. If you happen to overlook these regulations, it can result in costly delays, fines, or even the need to redo parts of the construction. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Not obtaining the necessary zoning permits.
- Ignoring fire and safety codes.
- Overlooking environmental impact assessments.
If you wish to avoid legal issues, work with a construction company in Texas that understands state and local regulations.
Poor Site Planning and Layout
What does a poorly designed facility do? It directly impacts customer experience and operational efficiency negatively. Some of the most common layout mistakes are as follows:
- Narrow driveways make maneuvering difficult.
- Lack of designated loading/unloading zones.
- Insufficient drainage leading to water accumulation.
With a well-planned layout, you are sure to improve accessibility, maximize storage space, and enhance overall customer satisfaction. So, now you know where you are lacking.
Underestimating Construction Costs
Budgeting mistakes are common in storage facility construction. Many investors underestimate expenses and run out of funds before completion. Issues include:
- Failing to account for unexpected costs like soil testing or weather delays.
- Choosing the cheapest materials leads to frequent repairs.
- Not budgeting for marketing and operational expenses post-construction.
Hiring a reliable construction company in Texas can help you create a realistic budget and minimize unforeseen expenses.
Overlooking Climate Control Options
Texas experiences extreme temperatures, making climate-controlled storage a valuable option for customers. Some investors make the mistake of skipping climate control to cut costs, but this can reduce occupancy rates, especially in urban areas where customers store sensitive items like electronics, antiques, and documents.
Consider offering at least some climate-controlled units to cater to a broader customer base and boost revenue.
Poor Marketing Strategy Post-Construction
Even after successfully constructing a storage facility, some owners fail to invest in marketing, leading to low occupancy rates. Common mistakes include:
- Relying solely on drive-by traffic for customers.
- Ignoring online advertising and social media.
- Not leveraging local business partnerships for referrals.
A strong marketing strategy, including digital advertising, promotions, and community engagement, is essential for long-term success.
Not Planning for Future Expansion
Storage facilities often need expansion as demand grows. Some owners make the mistake of using every inch of land for initial construction without planning for future expansion. When possible, leave room for:
- Additional storage units
- Parking spaces for RV and boat storage
- Office space for on-site management
Strategic planning with an expert construction company in Texas can help you future-proof your investment.
Conclusion
Constructing a storage facility in Texas requires careful planning, strategic decision-making, and adherence to legal regulations. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you from financial losses and operational headaches.
Whether it’s choosing the right location, following building codes, or budgeting correctly, partnering with an experienced construction company in Texas can ensure a smooth and successful project. With the right approach, your storage facility can become a thriving business in the Texas market.