Is your home overflowing with stuff, but you aren't
ready to get rid of it yet? Are you planning on moving and just need to clear
out the excess to put your house on the market and sell it faster? Looking for a
place to store belongings while you remodel? There are dozens of reasons for
renting a self-storage unit.
Self-storage, as the term implies, provides access to locked storage units on a
month-to-month basis. You sign an agreement then move your stuff into a storage
unit. No one has access but you and as long as your fees are kept current, your
relationship with the facility owner is based on landlord/tenant law in most
states.
The following hints can help you evaluate the right storage unit for your
purposes:
What type of access do you want? Make sure you have access when you need it.
Some units are available daily but have restricted hours. Others are available
24/7.
Does the facility have a surveillance system or coded security? Is there a
manager on the premises?
What are you storing? If you are storing items that are susceptible to climate
change, look for a climate-controlled storage unit that monitors temperature and
humidity. This is particularly important if you are storing collectables, books,
papers, textiles, electronics, or furniture that attract dampness or might do
poorly in an unregulated environment especially for an extended period of time.
Figure out how much space you need and rent a unit to accommodate your goods. As
a simple rule of thumb, think in terms of closet or room storage: You can store
the contents of a small bedroom in a 10 x 10 walk in closet. Most facilities
have storage guides to help you decide what the best size is for your stuff.
Check your insurance coverage and ask your agent if your goods are covered under
your current policy. Your agent may be able to add coverage for a charge much
more cost effectively than purchasing insurance through the storage facility.
Before signing an agreement, look at the specific unit. It should be clean and
dry, with no evidence of water seepage, bugs, or other pests.
Most units allow you to use your own lock. Purchase the best lock you can
afford. Check with a locksmith for advice about the best locks, if you aren't
sure.
Renting a secure, clean storage unit can give you the breathing room you need to
move, remodel, or just get through your Packrat's Anonymous program