Aside from the do’s and don’ts in storage units, there are also some other things you would need to consider before you go ahead with renting one. Asking questions is a must if you want a smooth sailing experience throughout the rental process because this keeps you from having troubles with the insurance policy, doing anything that shouldn’t be done, or just basically violating any rule that your self-storage provider has set for all its customers. Neglecting to ask such important questions may lead to a messy transaction, let alone, a few violations.
1. What storage unit sizes are available?
First of all, how many items will be stored? Are they big, small, or bulky? There are different storage unit sizes and each one varies on how many items can be accommodated inside. Knowing the sizes available keeps you from paying for the wrong unit size and allows you to better gauge which one would best fit your storage needs. You can also ask for a size guide so you can visualize the space.
Related: How to Choose the Right Storage Unit Size For Your Storage Needs
2. What are the office and storage access hours?
You have to understand that the office hours and storage access hours are different. Office hours vary depending on the storage company, but it will typically be business hours or 8 hours. Along with the office hours, you should also ask for the days when the office will be open.
The storage access hours is the time you can come to the facility and access your stored items. Some storage companies offer 24/7 access to your storage unit, however, it’s also essential to know that some don’t. So if you’re the type who would think of going to access your things in the storage facility at an odd hour, then go for a storage company that offers 24 hours and 7 days a week of accessibility.
3. What items are not allowed to be stored?
To avoid any damages or violations, it’s ideal to ask about the items you can’t store in the unit. It will also help to list them down so that you won’t forget.
Here are the items that should never be stored in the storage unit:
- Flammable and explosive items
- Food
- Tires
- Money
- Illegal and unlicensed items
- Wet items
- Firearms, explosives, and ammunition
- Alive and dead items
- Indispensable items
4. Are there access rules?
Pay attention to the access rules implemented in the storage facility of your choice since some may be stricter than others, so you can expect that entry and exit conditions may vary. Make sure to ask about their access hours — if the storage units are accessible 24/7 or not. Doing this helps you set a proper time and day for storage access.
5. What security measures are set up?
Many storage companies promise a safe and secure environment for your stored items. But don’t be too complacent as not every single one of them would always stick to proper implementation of security measures in the facility. See to it that you choose a reputable storage unit provider that will seek to provide every customer with quality services. It’s necessary to ask them about the kind of security measures set up in the facility — even the basic ones, such as security cameras, smoke alarm systems, and sprinkler systems (in case of fire).
6. Do you offer climate-controlled storage units?
If you’re planning to store temperature-sensitive items, then you may want to inquire about climate-controlled storage units. Stored items, especially when they’re not properly dried, are susceptible to moisture, molds, cracks, and pungent odors, which can result in further damage. Climate-controlled storage units have air-conditioning, heating, and humidity control, helping to regulate the temperature and humidity inside the storage unit — so your belongings are kept from deterioration. Most storage facilities offer this storage option these days, but it’s still important to inquire and prepare a budget.
Related: Climate-Controlled Storage Units: What You Need to Know
7. How long is the minimum or maximum lease term?
It’s worth noting that every storage facility has different rules, and this includes the lease term for their storage unit. Ask about the minimum and maximum storage lease that they offer. Put into consideration as well the length of time you plan to store with them — will it be on a short-term or long-term basis? Prices will vary depending on your chosen storage lease term, so the longer it is, the higher the rate.
8. How do you keep the storage facility clean?
Pests and rodents can make their way into your storage unit for two reasons: the first if you weren’t able to clean it, and the second is if the storage provider failed to implement proper cleanliness and maintenance in the facility. Keeping your storage unit clean is a good practice, but if the rest of the facility isn’t, it will be useless. Make sure that you choose a storage provider that strictly adheres to cleanliness standards in the facility.
9. Do you have pest control in the facility?
Cleanliness is a must if you don’t want creepy crawlies and rats hovering around your stored items. So it’s ideal that you ask about how they maintain their facility pest-free. Are they in contact with a pest control service company? If not, what pest control measures do they practice?
Related: 9 Tips to Make Your Storage Unit Pest Proof
10. Was there a break-in incident before?
Since you’ll be leaving some of your belongings stored, you must ask about any break-in history. Doing this allows you to gauge whether your chosen storage facility is safe or not. It’s better to know this kind of information before you pay for anything that will only cost you more than what you paid for.
11. Is insurance required?
Not all storage providers require insurance, but some do require it. Check with your chosen storage provider if they offer insurance and if it’s required or not. This helps you know the insurance coverage as well as how it will make storing with them more convenient.
12. What other fees do I need to pay aside from the rent?
Be clear with the fees you need to pay, so you won’t get surprised if the initial fee drastically increases upon billing of payment. Some of the common fees include security deposit and admin fee — and others, you will still need to inquire about. Asking about other fees allows you to know what to expect and avoid feeling forced to pay for hidden fees or something that you didn’t agree to pay for in the first place.
In need of a self-storage unit nearby to store your belongings? Contact us today and we will be glad to assist you!
