Before renting a storage unit, there are things you should know. For example, you need a government-issued ID to rent a storage unit in any of the 50 states. Every storage facility requires you to purchase insurance coverage. Many facilities require a lease term, while others are rented by the month. You should have a rough estimate of how long you will need the unit before you move your stuff in. Depending on supply and demand, the price structure for storage units may vary, so do your research and get several quotes to make sure you get the most bang for your buck.
5 Things to look at Before Signing a Lease
Security of the Facility
No matter what you are storing in your unit, it is valuable to you. So the first thing you want to look at when deciding which facility is best for your needs is to make sure they have a security system in place. Select a storage facility that will safeguard your belongings with the following security measures:
Talk to the personnel and ask how often they conduct property checks, what to do if there is an emergency, and who you can contact after hours. Also, confirm that emergency services are notified immediately at the first sign of potential threats to people or their property.
Facility Cleanliness
Even though you are not physically moving yourself or your family into the unit, you want to ensure that the facility maintains a certain level of cleanliness. Before signing the lease, take a tour of the facility and ask about day-to-day maintenance and cleaning procedures between renters. Inquire about their extermination policy, that they have no rodent or insect infestation of any kind. It is best to choose a facility with full-time care or cleaning staff and barriers to protect your belongings from inclement weather conditions.
After Hour Access & Assistance
Before choosing your facility, make sure you have access to your unit when it’s convenient for you. If you require off-hours, find out if there will be someone on sight. Also, know if they are closed for holidays or have abbreviated hours. If they are closed, know who to call if you need assistance outside standard business hours.
Is Climate Control Available
A lot of older facilities don’t offer climate-controlled storage. This is an essential factor to consider when you rent a unit. All tangibles will fare much better in a climate-controlled environment. Sometimes you may find the monthly fee a bit higher than non-climate-controlled units, but to preserve your items, it’s worth the extra cost. Certain items require climate control, such as legal documents, furs, electronic appliances, vehicles, and furniture. Climate control will prolong the life of your items and prevent deterioration.
Renters Insurance
Many facilities require full coverage insurance in case of theft, fire, and/or water damage. This falls under the category of renters insurance. Frequently insurance companies allow you to add your rental unit to your already existing insurance policy under an addendum or umbrella policy. You should look into this as it is usually more cost-effective than a stand-alone policy.
Limitations on Use
Many facilities have limitations on usage. No facility allows hazardous, flammable, or combustible materials to be stored. Many facilities have restrictions on food or plants that attract insects. With the skyrocketing cost of rents, many people use storage units as a mobile office or workspace. If that is something you have in mind, ask if that’s allowed before signing the lease. The last thing you want to do is violate your lease and be asked to vacate within 48 hours. Many newer storage facilities offer vehicle and boat storage solutions. So if you’re looking to park your classic car or keep your motorcycle out of the elements for an extended period of time, a storage rental may be the answer your looking for.
Every facility built by The Tymac Group is state of the art. Our facilities have 24-hour surveillance and are kept immaculate by onsite staff. All units have climate control and offer 24-hour secure access. Trust Tymac for your self-storage needs.