If you are running out of space at home, renting a storage unit is a practical way to store your belongings without cluttering your house. The storage market is a growing industry in the United States, and most areas have storage facilities available for rent.
People often rent storage units to temporarily keep their belongings when moving. It’s also a good solution if you want to declutter and free up space in your home. Store out-of-season items and belongings you don’t need every day.
No matter what you need to store, here are a few things to consider when renting a storage unit.
Storage Location
You may hope to find a storage facility close to your house. Although practical, the nearest storage unit may not be the best. Shop around for storage companies in your area. Compare features, price, security, and the availability of units. If you’re still uncertain, visit the location and check out your options.
Accessibility is Important When Renting a Storage Unit
When shopping for your ideal storage unit, check how accessible the unit is. What will you be storing? You may be loading and unloading boxes or larger items like furniture. Make sure you won’t have difficulty transporting stuff from your car into the storage facility.
Storage Size and Price
Storage units come in different sizes and are usually priced accordingly. If you’re unsure what size you’ll need, put the belongings to be stored in one area of your home or garage. You may be able to get a better idea of the size of the space you’ll need when you see your things in one location.
Security
The security aspect is essential when renting a storage unit. You don’t want to leave your valuables in storage and later learn the unit was broken into or damaged. Read the reviews and check the reputation of the storage facility you are interested in.
Some storage facilities are indoors, providing an extra level of security. When visiting the facility, ask about security cameras and how the access codes work for customers. A gated, indoor storage unit is often the most secure.
Ask if the company issues padlocks. Most will allow you to purchase and use your own. Leave a key or a note with the key code with a trusted friend or in a safe deposit box if you misplace your copy or forget the code.
Regular or Climate-Controlled Storage
Storage facilities often have regular and climate-controlled units. If you plan to store electronics, quality furniture, or things that would be damaged by heat or humidity, opt for a climate-controlled unit. These units usually cost more than the regular units but offer more protection for sensitive items.
Shop for Insurance When Renting a Storage Unit
Most storage companies have insurance for their facilities, but most of them don’t cover the contents of your unit. Check with your insurance provider to learn if they cover your belongings in storage. Learn about coverage in case of fire, theft, floods, or natural disasters.
With thousands of storage facilities available across the country, renting a storage unit is less challenging if you know what to look for. Shop around and ask questions to find the best option for you.
Coastline Home Inspection provides inspection services to home buyers and sellers in the Hampton Roads area. Contact us to request an appointment.