Whether moving, renovating, or just needing extra space, self-storage units come in diverse sizes and prices to suit your needs. But before you rent a storage unit, you must understand the various requirements and logistics involved. For instance, you will need to provide a valid, government-issued identification document such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
There are many reasons for leasing a self-storage unit, as are the options of service providers. For Arizona residents looking to safely store their excess furniture after downsizing, chest toys, or other valuables, iStorage guarantees more choices, budget-friendly rates, and accessibility.
Regardless of your preferred service provider, here are the eight things you need to know before you append your signature on the dotted line and lease a self-storage unit:
Commons Questions on Renting a Self-Storage Unit
1. What should you look for when choosing a self-storage facility?
First, the unit you rent must be safe and secure to see to it you don’t lose your valuable stuff to burglary. Check out security features like video or in-person surveillance, locks, and security gates. Other factors to consider when selecting a self-storage facility include accessibility, pricing, location, and customer reviews. Notably, units located near cities offer more convenience but might be pricier.
2. What do you need to lease a self-storage unit?
The service provider will request an identification document when you seek to rent a storage unit. Only valid, government-issued documents are acceptable. Thus, your options include a passport, state ID, military ID, or driver’s license. Another important document in the leasing process is an agreement or contract. Before signing, read and understand the agreement’s terms and conditions to avoid liabilities.
3. What determines the cost of your storage unit?
The pricing of storage facilities depends on the size you rent, the length of your contract, and the location of the storage center. While most companies provide month-to-month contracts, signing longer terms can land you a discount and lower your charges significantly. Demand also determines the unit prices. The cost can be lower if many vacant units are available vis-à-vis when the majority are leased out already.
4. When can you access the storage facility?
Access hours differ from facility to facility. While some remain accessible 24 hours a day, most offer access within standard business hours only. Therefore, consider the operation times and choose a facility with access hours that work for you to avoid inconveniences. If you are likely to require unit access outside business hours, a facility operating 24 hours is the best option, but it will be more expensive.
5. Do you need insurance to rent a self-storage unit?
Insurance is the surest way of protecting your stored valuables against potential damages or losses. So, you’ll need it. Some facilities offer insurance options like an in-house storage plan, which you can consider. The premium and the items covered often vary depending on the facility. While some storage companies might not require an insurance plan to lease you a unit, others will demand an insurance policy before signing the contract.
6. Which items can you keep in a storage facility?
Self-storage units are designated to hold various business, household, and personal belongings ranging from furniture, files, and clothing to refrigerators. That said, the regulations prohibit you from storing anything alive or hazardous in these structures. Things you should not keep in storage units include explosives, weapons, flammable items, and foodstuff.
7. What happens when someone breaks into your storage facility?
Despite the use of the latest security technology, burglary can still occur in your storage facility. When you become a victim of self-storage unit theft, you can make an insurance claim for the items lost if they are covered. Without an insurance policy, you might not get any compensation as the storage facility is not liable except in the event of neglect. For example, if the theft occurred because a company staff left the door unlocked. In this case, you might be compensated. Remember to make an insurance claim as soon as you discover the incident.
8. How can you save on storage unit charges?
The less storage space you use, the more you save. Packing your items well will help you save more space and even rent a smaller storage unit, which is usually cheaper. For your belongings to fit in a smaller space, disassemble bulky furniture by removing the table or chair legs and use stackable bins to arrange items up to the unit ceiling. Also, stash smaller items in objects with open spaces like dressers and wardrobes to maximize space. Leave an aisle when packing your stuff in a storage unit for easy access.
Conclusion
Self-storage units are the perfect places to stash household and business items when renovating or moving to a new neighborhood. But before you sign a contract to rent a unit, you need to know the facility’s cost, security, and insurance requirements.
About the Author/s
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.
