Why firearms are prohibited from being stored in storage units
Storing guns in a UK storage unit isn't allowed. But why is this case? Here are the 3 main reasons:
Security concerns
Firearms are high-value items and thus attract theft. Allowing firearms in storage units increases the risk of break-ins. This can lead to significant losses not only of the firearms but also other stored items. The presence of guns can make storage facilities prime targets for thieves, leading to more frequent and potentially violent crimes.
Safety hazards
Guns and ammunition are inherently dangerous. Improperly stored firearms, especially loaded ones, pose a risk of accidental discharge, which can cause serious injury or start fires.
Legal and regulatory issues
The storage of firearms in storage units complicates legal compliance and liability for storage facility owners. If a storage unit goes up for auction due to unpaid rent, firearms might end up in the hands of individuals who are not legally permitted to own them, such as ex-felons. This can create significant legal headaches and potential liability for storage companies.
Understanding UK gun laws
Firearm ownership in the UK is heavily regulated to ensure public safety. If you’re considering owning a firearm or already possess one, it’s crucial to understand these laws.
What firearms can you legally own?
In the UK, you can legally own certain types of firearms, but each requires a specific licence:
Shotguns – You need a shotgun certificate, which allows you to own shotguns that can hold no more than three cartridges.
Rifles – For rifles, including small-bore target rifles and some larger calibre firearms, you need a firearm certificate.
Airguns – While low-power air rifles and air pistols don’t require a licence in England and Wales, Scotland requires a certificate for all airguns.
How to get a licence
To legally own any firearm in the UK, you must apply for and obtain the appropriate licence. The process involves thorough background checks by the police, including:
Criminal records check – Ensuring you have no serious convictions.
Medical records check – Assessing your mental health and overall suitability to own a firearm.
Home inspection – Verifying that you have appropriate storage facilities, such as a secure gun safe, to prevent unauthorised access.
Responsibilities of firearm owners
Even with a licence, there are strict conditions on firearm ownership:
Storage – Firearms must be stored securely at all times, typically in a locked gun safe that meets police standards.
Usage – You can only use your firearms for the purposes specified in your licence, such as sport shooting, hunting, or pest control.
Transportation – Firearms must be transported securely and unloaded, with ammunition stored separately.
The rules on firearm storage
As we mentioned, storing firearms in a self storage unit or any similar facility is strictly prohibited. The law requires firearms to be kept securely at home in a police-approved safe. Ammunition must also be stored separately and securely.
Not only is this in breach of your storage unit contract, but violating these storage laws can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Repercussions for storing a firearm illegally in a storage unit
If your storage facility owner finds out you're using a unit for firearm storage, you'll be in serious trouble (and that's putting it lightly). Storing weapons illegally can lead to deadly serious consequences. Here are the potential repercussions:
Legal penalties – Illegally storing a firearm can result in significant fines or imprisonment. Violating firearm storage regulations, such as keeping a gun in an unauthorised location, is a criminal offence that can lead to prosecution.
Firearm seizure – If discovered, illegally stored firearms will be confiscated by law enforcement. The individual responsible may also lose their firearm licence, making it illegal for them to own or possess firearms in the future.
Increased liability – Storage facility owners can face severe liability issues if firearms stored on their premises are involved in criminal activities or accidents. This liability extends to potential lawsuits and damages if negligence in allowing firearm storage is proven.
Tips for proper gun storage
If you're officially licensed to store guns in the UK, it's essential to ensure safety and compliance with the law. Here are some key tips for proper firearms storage:
Use a gun safe
Investing in a quality gun safe is crucial. A proper gun safe will protect your firearms from unauthorized access, theft, and environmental damage. Look for safes that meet British Standard 7558 for gun cabinets.
Keep firearms unloaded
Always store firearms unloaded. This reduces the risk of accidental discharge and makes the firearms safer to handle during storage and retrieval (NSSF).
Separate ammunition storage
Store ammunition separately from firearms. Use a secure, lockable container specifically designed for ammunition storage. This practice minimizes the risk of accidents and ensures that firearms and ammunition are not easily accessible together.
Control humidity and temperature
Firearms should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion. Use a dehumidifier or desiccant inside your gun safe to maintain an optimal humidity level of around 50%. Regularly monitor humidity levels using a hygrometer to ensure the environment remains suitable for firearm storage.
Regularly clean and maintain
Clean your firearms thoroughly before storage to remove any residue, fingerprints, and moisture that could cause rust. Regular maintenance, including oiling the metal parts, helps to keep the firearms in good working condition.
On the hunt for self storage in London? HOLD has you covered!
HOLD is a next-gen storage company that puts your needs first. If you're seeking storage space in London, few can match our Kings Cross facility. Whether for business or household storage, we’ve got you covered.
We have a wide range of traditional storage units, but we also have climate-secure business units, great customer service, competitive pricing, and advanced security.
You may not be able to put your guns in a storage unit, but we'll help you find a solution tailored to your needs! Reach out for a no-strings quote today!
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to store a firearm?
The best place to store a firearm is in a dedicated gun safe within your home. The safe should meet British Standard 7558 and be placed in a secure, low-humidity location.
What is the best option for safe storage of firearms?
The best option for safe storage of firearms is a high-quality gun safe that meets British Standard 7558. Ensure it has additional security features like biometric locks, is securely anchored, and includes humidity control to prevent rust and corrosion.
What are you not allowed to have in a storage unit?
You are not allowed to store firearms, ammunition, hazardous materials, stolen or illegal goods, perishable food items, living or dead animals, and unregistered or uninsured vehicles in a storage unit.
What security measures does HOLD have?
At HOLD, advanced security measures are essential for protecting our customer's business assets. The features we offer include:
- 24-hour CCTV
- All units fitted with intruder alarms
- Secure loading bay
- Robust security for individual units
- Personal pin codes
- Fire detection systems
These features not only provide peace of mind, but also protect your business assets from potential threats.
When can I access my HOLD storage unit?
We offer 24/7 access hours and round-the-clock customer assistance. These crucial features are included in all our storage solutions at HOLD.
