Cars are constantly being targeted by criminals who use more hi-tech and elaborate methods as vehicle security improves.
As well as taking vehicles from owners’ homes, car dealerships are major targets because they have large numbers of valuable vehicles with the keys nearby, as well as expensive parts and components.
Motor traders also have to be concerned about being left counting the cost of vandalism, as well as reputational damage if vehicle security or customers’ personal information are compromised.
It is vital that dealerships are kept secure at all times and there are procedures in place to prevent thefts being carried out by people posing as customers.
The following five steps will not only help keep dealerships secure, they will also reassure customers that their vehicles and any sensitive information held are safe.
1. Use security cameras
Installing good-quality CCTV cameras which record 24-7 are an essential part of any modern security system. In the event of damage or a theft, the evidence is captured in real time which will help in a prosecution or recovery of stolen property.
Cameras should cover all public areas of the dealership, both internally and externally. It is important to ensure access points are covered because footage from entrances and exits could prove vital in the event of a theft or break-in.
Having a visible camera system acts as a deterrent to criminals and a reassurance for customers that their property is being protected.
2. Install alarm systems
In addition to CCTV cameras, a monitored alarm system is another must for motor traders. With valuable stock and sensitive information to protect, the alarm needs to be raised as soon as possible in the event of intruders on the premises, especially at night.
A working and monitored alarm ensures a police or security response in the event of a break-in, giving thieves less time to flee with vehicles or sensitive information.
3. Keep your inventory secure
With so many valuable vehicles and components on site, the entire dealership should be enclosed with secure fencing and locking gates and barriers.
While it should appear welcoming to customers during opening times, out of hours, it lets thieves know there are no easy pickings.
As well as physical security, it is also important that staff are vigilant and procedures are in place to prevent losses. Any loss or damage affects the entire business and one of the best ways of keeping vehicles secure is to get staff into the habit of making sure each vehicle is locked, barriers and gates are not left open unnecessarily and keys and valuables are always secure.
While vehicle theft is an obvious concern, expensive parts are also attractive to thieves who might benefit from an open stock room, or try to remove components from vehicles on the lot, causing further damage in the process.
4. Limit access to sensitive areas
While car showrooms are designed to be welcoming and inviting to potential customers, access to vehicle keys, documents and computer systems must be restricted. Keys should be kept out of site in a safe with access given only to those who need it.
Similarly, computer systems and information such as customer details and finance arrangements must be kept secure at all times, in areas the public doesn’t have access to.
These areas should also be monitored by CCTV cameras to offer extra protection.
5. Utilise strong lighting
Many dealerships use lighting to showcase the features of the latest models, but it is also an important security feature.
All areas should be well-lit to prevent intruders from hiding or giving them the opportunity to dispose of stolen property.
Good lighting is also important to ensure the best performance of CCTV systems, allowing them to capture high-quality images which can be used to identify offenders.
Final thoughts
Knowing their every move can be seen as a strong deterrent to thieves.
Car dealership security combines several key approaches which make a site unappealing for thieves. If they know their every move will be caught on camera, that keys, valuables and sensitive information are not left lying around and, in the event they get into a vehicle, they will have a difficult time removing it from the lot.
Having robust security systems and procedures in place helps motor traders not only protect their business from financial and reputational losses, it also builds trust with customers.
It can also lead to lower commercial property insurance and motor trade insurance premiums.
