The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for controlling access to a storage unit having one or more lockable compartments, at least one locking / unlocking apparatus for the one or more lockable compartments, a unit controller and a power supply electrically connected to the at least one locking / unlocking apparatus and the unit controller. The unit controller is communicably coupled to the locking / unlocking apparatus and receives a message from a remote controller and controls the locking / unlocking apparatus based on the message. The modular storage unit may include an overhead storage unit, a storage pedestal, a storage cabinet, a lateral storage unit, a file cabinet or a desk drawer. The remote controller may include a user device, network device that stores one or more security profiles containing user access data for one or more authorized users, one or more trigger event / action protocols, other access activity information or a combination thereof.