Five Factors to Consider Before Renting a Self-Storage Unit

Usually when people are looking for a place to store their stuff, price and proximity are the two top-featured aspects. This article will shed some light on other important features to keep in mind when sizing up a storage facility. These simple suggestions will benefit first-renters as well as seasoned storage veterans alike.

1. Facility Security

Knowing that your belongings are safe and secure is a top priority and will give you the peace of mind so that you are not always worrying about your stuff. Paying close attention to the security features that any facility you are considering renting from is important. Look for:

• Security Cameras

• Fence Around Facility

• How well the storage units are constructed.

• Locks on the units (don’t use bolt locks that can easily be cut)

• Code-locked Gate at Entrance

• Good-Lighting

• Neighborhood around where facility is located

Don’t be afraid to ask the owner about the security measures that their respective facility offers.

2. Facility Cleanliness

Along with facility security, make sure that your valuables will be kept clean and in good condition by evaluating the cleanliness of the facility before renting. Tour the facility and the individual units to make sure everything is orderly and neat. You will want to make sure your unit is protected from the elements such as moisture, dirt, and floods as well as from mice and other rodents.

3. After Hours Access & Assistance

Before renting, make sure you will have access to your stuff year round and that the facility owner will be good to work with. There is nothing more frustrating than needing something from your storage, driving across town to go get it, and then being stopped at the gate because of bad facility access problems. These types of things can be eliminated with a little foresight and evaluation.

4. Self Storage Insurance

Some storage facilities will offer Self Storage Insurance to add an extra layer of security knowing your items are protected. Check with each owner to see what the facility offers as way of insurance. While an important factor to consider, if your facility meets all other criteria this may not be a deal-breaker.

5. Climate Controlled Facility  

One last thing that would be important to keep in mind is the actual items you are planning on storing. Questions you should ask yourself-- How long am I planning on storing my items? Are these belongings heat/cold sensitive? Is it worth a little extra money to make sure my stuff is protected from the elements?

Items that might require climate sensitive storage include:

• Electronics

• Business Documents

• Family Heirlooms

• Vehicles

• Valuable Art (Paintings & Photography)

• Furniture

Choosing the right facility to rent from is like choosing a good landlord. It will save you time and headaches in the future and make the entire experience more enjoyable. Hopefully this will give you an idea of what to look for when choosing the Storage that works for you!