Code of Ethics and Anti-Trust

Code of Ethics

Every member of this Association shall adhere to the Code of Ethics of this Association. The purpose of the Code of Ethics is to protect the public and raise the standards of conduct of the self-storage industry. These standards may exceed, but are never less than nor contrary, to those required by law.

Each member of the Association shall:

  1. Promote and maintain a high standard of integrity in the performance of all rental obligations and services in the operation of the self-storage facilities.
  2. Maintain and operate their facilities in a fair and honorable manner.
  3. Strive continually to promote the education and fraternity of the membership and to promote the progress and dignity of the self-storage industry in creating a positive image of itself in order that the public may be better served.
  4. Always attempt to obtain tenants, through advertising or otherwise, without the use of deceptive, misleading, or fraudulent statements, misrepresentations, or the use of implications, unwarranted by fact or reasonable probability.
  5. Use SSASC forms and publications only when they are lawfully reproduced or reprinted and when authorized.
  6. Use the SSASC logo only in the manner determined, approved and published by the SSASC Board of Directors.
  7. Abide by all national, state, and local laws of every kind and nature.
    Promote responsible legislative policies affecting our industry.

Violations of these Code of Ethics may result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors up to and including termination of membership.

Anti-Trust Guidelines

Statement of Policy

The Self Storage Association of South Carolina (SSASC) recognizes and acknowledges the importance of preserving a free, competitive economy in the United States. It is SSASC’s policy to avoid any conduct or discussion that would constitute, or which could be construed as, restraining competition among competitors through agreement, understanding or otherwise, as to the price, production, or distribution of their products, or other agreements which unreasonably restrict competition, or restrict the competitive capabilities or opportunities of their competitors, their suppliers or their customers.

As unlawful agreements can sometimes be inferred from circumstantial evidence, it is the intention of this organization to avoid even the appearance of questionable activity. Accor­dingly, all SSASC meetings of every kind will be con­ducted in accordance with the following procedures:

There will be no discussion at any time of:

  • Current or future price
  • What constitutes a “fair profit level”
  • Possible increases or decreases in prices
  • Standardization or stabilization of prices
  • Pricing procedures
  • Cash discounts
  • Credit terms
  • Control of sales
  • Allocation of markets or geographical division of markets
  • Refusal to deal with a corporation because of its pricing or distribution practices
  • Whether or not the pricing practices of any industry mem­ber are unethical or constitute an unfair trade practice

It is the policy of SSASC and its members to comply strictly with all laws applicable to SSASC’s activities. Because such activities involve cooperative undertakings and meetings among com­petitors, the Board of Directors emphasizes the ongoing com­mitment of SSASC and its members to full compliance with federal and state antitrust laws. A statement explaining this policy is to be made available at all SSASC meetings to remind each member of this commitment and as a general guide for our activities and meetings.

Responsibility for Antitrust Compliance

SSASC’s programs have been designed and reviewed to ensure their conformity with antitrust standards. Each SSASC member has an equivalent responsibility for antitrust com­pli­ance. Each business enterprise and SSASC depend upon good judgment by all to avoid discussions and activities which could involve improper subject matter or improper procedures, or even an appearance of improper activity. SSASC staff mem­bers work conscientiously to avoid subject matters for dis­cus­sion which may have unintended implications, and counsel for SSASC provides guidance with regard to these matters. All concerned have an important and individual responsibility for assuring antitrust compliance in SSASC activities.

Meeting Procedures

To avoid even the appearance of questionable activity, as well as to guard against inadvertent conduct, all SSASC meetings shall follow these guidelines:

  • A written agenda will be prepared
  • Accurate minutes of every meeting will be prepared, expeditiously sent to the participants, and approved at the next meeting
  • These guidelines will be posted at all board meetings and be noted in the minutes
  • In case of doubt about the propriety of a topic of dis­cus­sion, consult SSASC officers or corporate counsel
  • If a member has a reservation concerning remarks or discussion at an SSASC meeting, officially state the reser­va­tion; if the discussion is not terminated or resolved satis­factorily, the concerned member should leave the meeting
  • Post-meeting chat sessions involving the discussion of business mat­ters should be avoided

Conclusion

These guidelines are intended to highlight and empha­size the com­mitment of this organization to abide by the spirit of the law, and to set forth general, basic precautions designed to avoid not only antitrust violations, but any behavior which might be considered improper as well.

In case of doubt, seek the guidance of SSASC counsel, the officers of SSASC or your own corporate counsel if antitrust questions arise.