Using Self Storage When Renovating a Home

Self storage is highly useful, flexible and good value, but it does come with a few rules that benefit everyone involved. Here are a few key do’s and don’ts to get the most from self storage when renovating a home.

Self storage is an amazing investment enabling you to keep your belongings safe when you are having work done on your home, at a minimal cost. However, there are specific do’s and don’t with self storage that should be adhered to, for the benefit of all involved with the storage unit, and the facility itself. Sometimes the do’s and don’ts relate to safety, and should absolutely never be ignored.

Here are some key do’s and don’ts to pay attention to with self storage:

DO read the small print – to make sure you understand everything on your contract that is expected of you. If you ignore the small print you could find that you breach the terms and face a hefty fine, or find yourself getting charged more or even getting your unit withheld because of terms you haven’t read. If you are unclear about anything, ask about it before signing. Sometimes you can negotiate certain terms, although it is most likely the contract details the non-negotiables from the company.

DON’T avoid insurance – you need to have insurance for the items at the unit, usually before you can hold your items there, or you might agree to the set insurance provided by the unit. You should also get insurance for items of high value. Check the terms of your home insurance if that is what you are relying on as it is likely that it doesn’t cover items you keep outside of the home.

DON’T store flammable liquids or objects – this is always the case with storage units and it ensures everybody stays safe. Any cars, or machinery full of gas or petrol should be drained before storage. If you are unsure what counts as a flammable liquid or object, ask the management team first before storing, not after.

DO make sure stored items are dry – any excess moisture can not only rust or degrade the objects containing the moisture, but also expel moisture or mould spores into the air which then affect other stored items.

DON’T store anything edible – this can attract rats, mice and insects and cause infestations.

DO practise excellent organisation – use good quality boxes, label them, keep a log book and keep it up to date. The more organised you are, the more able you will be to access things you need quickly, and keep them stored correctly.

DON’T store weapons – This is usually never allowed, even with historical weapons.

DO ask the site manager if you unsure of anything – they are more than happy to help and want to ensure you can keep happily and safely storing with them.

DO practise safe stacking – stacking boxes badly, or to high can be extremely dangerous and may cause them to topple on those entering the unit. They may also topple and damage the objects inside.

If you are ever unclear about the regulations and rules of your storage unit, always ask, never assume. Doing things by the book keeps your items safe, and ensures you’re using the unit in a safe and beneficial way.