So you have purchased gold or silver bullion—what now? Whether you have purchased a small number of coins or a several kilo quantity of precious metals, how you store them is as critical as the initial purchase. Storing them incorrectly may leave your assets vulnerable to theft, loss, or even deterioration from the elements. 

At AU Bullion, we are frequently asked: Should I keep my bullion in a home storage or a secure vault? The response will rely on your investment objectives, risk appetite, and individual choices. Let’s outline the advantages and disadvantages of both options to enable you to make an informed choice for your precious metals. 

Storing Bullion at Home 

Immediate access: You own your metals and have instant access to them, no third parties necessary. 

No recurring fees: There are no monthly or yearly storage fees, unlike some competitor vault services. 

Discretion: Home storage provides total anonymity—no reporting obligation or third-party surveillance. 

Security threats: Home storage is susceptible to exposing your metals to theft, unless you have a good safe or security system. 

Limitations in insurance: By default, most home insurance policies don’t cover bullion, or they include very low limits. 

Environmental harm: Lacking proper storage (fire resistance, humidity control), your bullion may tarnish or suffer damage. 

Optimal storage practices at home: Purchase a fireproof, heavy-duty safe and bolt it firmly to the floor. Keep your purchase private—Do not advertise your bullion ownership. Place in a dry, cool location to prevent tarnish or corrosion. Consider procuring special insurance for precious metals. 

Storing bullion in a secure vault 

High-level security: Vaults offer 24/7 monitoring, armed guards, and strict access controls.

 Fully insured: Often, professional vault services have insurance that protects you for the total replacement value of your metals. 

Peace of mind: You are not faced with threats from robbery or natural calamities for your home. 

Ongoing storage costs: Vault services operate on a monthly or yearly charge, which mounts up in the long term. 

Limited accessibility: You will need to make an appointment or go through a formal process to get your metals. 

Trust factor: You are entrusting your assets to a third party, so you need to select a provider you trust. 

Vault Storage is best suited for: Major bullion purchases (particularly more than $50,000 Frequent flyers or those who don’t have a safe space at home, Estate planning and preservation strategies.

What is the Best Option for You? 

There is no one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re storing a small quantity and need rapid accessibility, home storage can work, with proper security in place. If you’re storing a large quantity or need maximum peace of mind, professional vaulting is probably worth the expense. 

AU Bullion’s Recommendation 

We support both kinds of investors at AU Bullion. We provide: Discreet packaging and shipping for home storage buyers, Reliable vaulting solutions through third-party partners, Expert advice to guide you in selecting just the right thing for you. Whether you’re stacking for the long term or just beginning, safeguarding your investment is the way to go. 

Want to purchase gold or silver? 

Browse our extensive bullion coin and bar selection at www.aubullion.ca, or find us in person at either our Vancouver or Brampton store for expert advice and trusted service.