What not to store in a self-storage unit and why?
When it comes to self-storage, it’s essential to know what items are suitable for storage and which ones are not. While self-storage units can provide a convenient and cost-effective solution for storing your belongings, it’s crucial to keep in mind that not all items are suitable for storage.
It’s important to carefully consider what you store in a self-storage unit to ensure that it’s safe, legal, and won’t cause damage to the environment. By avoiding these items, you can help keep your storage unit and the facility safe and secure. Some items can be dangerous or prohibited, while others can cause harm to other items in the unit. Here are some things that you should avoid storing in a self-storage unit and why.
Perishable Items
Perishable items such as food or plants are likely to spoil quickly, attract pests and rodents, and create an unpleasant odor. When food items start to decay, they emit a foul odor, which can attract rodents and insects, causing an infestation. Once this happens, it can be challenging to get rid of them. Additionally, pests can quickly spread to other units in the facility. Moreover, many self-storage facilities prohibit storing perishable items, as it can pose a safety hazard and damage the other units. Therefore, it’s best to avoid storing perishable items in self-storage and look for more suitable storage solutions.
Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials such as flammable liquids, chemicals, pesticides, and explosives can cause severe damage to your storage unit, as well as other units, and endanger the safety of the entire facility. The risk of fire, explosion, or chemical contamination is extremely high with hazardous materials. Most self-storage facilities prohibit storing hazardous materials because of these safety risks. Furthermore, disposing of hazardous materials can be complex and expensive, and you may be held liable for any damage or injury caused due to your negligence. Therefore, it’s best to avoid storing hazardous materials in a self-storage unit and seek professional guidance for safe disposal.
Illegal Items
It should go without saying, but it is strictly forbidden to keep illegal items in a self-storage unit. Illegal items refer to any item that is illegal to possess, distribute, or transport under federal, state, or local laws. These items can include firearms, explosives, stolen goods, counterfeit goods, illegal drugs, and other items that violate the law. Storing illegal items in a self-storage unit not only violates the terms and conditions of the rental agreement but also puts you and the facility at risk. If found, you may face criminal charges, legal action, and even imprisonment. Additionally, self-storage facilities have the right to report any suspicious activity to the authorities, which may lead to an investigation and potential legal consequences. Therefore, it’s best to just not do it!
Valuable Items
Self-storage units are generally secure, but not recommended for valuable items due to the risk of theft or damage. Even with security measures in place, theft is possible, and items may become damaged in a non-climate-controlled environment. Most facilities have limited liability insurance, which may not cover the full value of items. Insuring items separately or renting a safe deposit box at a bank is a better option for valuable items. Before storing items in a self-storage unit, it’s crucial to weigh the risks and benefits carefully.
Items that require climate control
Self-storage units are typically not climate-controlled, which means that extreme temperature or humidity changes can damage sensitive items, such as artwork, antiques, electronics, or musical instruments. High humidity levels can lead to mold growth, while extreme heat or cold can cause warping or cracking. These types of damages can be costly to repair or replace. It’s best to avoid storing climate-sensitive items in a self-storage unit and look for alternatives, such as renting a climate-controlled unit or finding alternative storage solutions.
Some items can pose a safety hazard, attract pests, or be easily damaged, causing irreparable harm. Therefore, it’s vital to understand what items should never be stored in a self-storage unit to avoid any issues or complications down the line.
