Self Storage FAQs

You have finally decided to clear the clutter from your basement so you can have that dream home theater room. You have stored years worth of furniture, paper files and crafts as well as many off season decorations. Many of the items you want to keep for future use. But where do you put everything? Your garage is already full and closets are overrun. The logical solution is to place everything in one of those self storage rentals you pass every day.

Before you begin packing all your stuff into the first available unit, get the answers to some of the most common questions about self storage rentals first. Lets address the more popular ones.

1. What sizes are available? Most self storage rentals will have a large variety of sizes available. The smallest ones are great for storing boxes and clothing while the largest can hold a house full of furniture or even your boat.

2. What is the cost of the unit? Self storage rentals are rented by the month and depend on the size and location of the unit. Climate controlled units are normally higher, up to 50 percent more than unheated unit. Payments can be made in a variety of ways, according to the contract. You can pay monthly, quarterly or semi annually or annually, by check, cash, credit card or automatic payment.

3. Will the management pro rate rent? If you rent during the middle of the month or discontinue your lease before a full month is ended find out if the rent will be adjusted accordingly.

4. Is there a deposit required? Are there any other fees? Some facilities charge a deposit as well as the first and last months rent. Some facilities charge fees for locks, security services or a set up fee to add you to their system.

5. How long is the lease? Is there a minimum or maximum amount of time you can rent a unit? What if you need it for a long period of time while you are out of the country? Most facilities require a one month rental, simply because of the rentals are based on month to month agreements. If you decide to terminate your lease, the management will want a prior notice and this time will vary among the facilities. It can be anywhere from 10 days up to a months notice. 

6. Is insurance provided? Will your valuables be covered from fire, damages and theft? Many facilities do not provide insurance for your items. Ask what, if any kind of coverage is provided and the costs and covered items. If they do not offer insurance or it is not enough to cover your belongings, check with your current insurance agent.  Homeowners or renters insurance often can be purchased to cover storing your items.

7. Can you change to a different size if your needs change? Most facilities allow you to move up or down in size.

8. Can you store anything? What is not allowed? Many facilities do not allow food or perishables, flammables or explosives, and chemicals and hazardous wastes.  Some facilities offer self storage rentals specifically designed for wine keeping. These units are climate controlled to the right temperature for wine keeping.

9. Are units dry? Climate controlled? Are pallets available? Some facilities offer free wooden pallets. These pallets allow air to circulate around items stored. Climate controlled units are allow the temperature and humidity to be controlled to store sensitive items like leather furniture, electronics and musical equipment.

10. What type of security do the facilities have? Should you provide your own lock? You can provide your own lock at many facilities or purchase a lock from the facility. Some facilities provide security cameras, round the clock surveillance and other high tech security options.

These are just a few of the many questions you should ask when thinking of storing any of your belongings in self storage rentals . The advances made in today facilities make them a secure, safe and good option when you need to clear out space in your home.

Lenexa RV Storage

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Disclamer: This entry is intended to promote our partner StorageMart and some or all participants received compensation.

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