Prevent Costly Storage Problems When Choosing A Storage Unit
Posted on: 22 July 2015
If you have never had to use a self-storage unit in the past and you aren't sure what to look for, there are a few things you want to beware of. The unit is a great way to store items that you don't have room for around your living space, but there are three problems that you should be able to avoid with advanced planning. Before you rent you want to look at the potential rental options and consider if theft, pests or mold are going to be problems in the units you look at.
Theft
As you look at different storage facilities make sure to pick out a location that has video surveillance, and that uses keypads or cylinder locks on the doors. An unmonitored facility is going to be a target for crime, and padlocks can be removed by thieves with a set of bolt cutters. You may also want your unit to be kept indoors in a heated or temperature regulated building, which should have additional security.
Pests
Rodents and insects are always looking for shelter, and may decide to call your storage unit home. Make sure you have all items sealed and stored in containers that can't be chewed or damaged easily, and use moth balls or other rodent repelling items throughout the space. Items from mattresses to books can be damaged in storage by rodents.
Mold
During temperature changes throughout the year condensation may occur, causing moisture throughout the storage unit. This can cause water droplets to get absorbed in different materials, and you may end up with mold. Sealing all of your items properly to prevent condensation can help you stop mold and mildew from becoming a problem in your storage unit. Check to see if there are ventilation vents somewhere in the unit to help prevent condensation.
If you worry about having your items stolen or damaged you should talk with your home or rental insurance provider about getting storage insurance. This way you are covered if there is a plumbing problem at the storage facility and all of your items end up wet or drenched with sewage, or if there is an unexpected fire and your items end up in flames. Talk with your own insurance provider, or with the storage facility (such as Sentry Mini-Storage Inc) to see if they offer coverage for tenants. Being preventative can save a lot of time, money and headaches later on.
Share