Self-storage units are a great way of storing goods that are not easily accessible or are too large for a home or business. What most people do not realise, however, is that several safety issues surround the storage of items in this way. If you’re looking for a good quality self-storage unit then you must find one that meets your requirements and provides you with the best security features. In our recommendation, Guardian Self Storage meets all the needs and requirements, so you can easily contact them. Here are some of the things you should look out for when making your choice:
Security
The level of security that a self-storage facility has in place is paramount. There should be measures in place that can ensure your belongings are safely stored away. Most self-storage facilities will use security cameras, alarm systems, and smoke alarms. It may even be a good idea to invest in a padlock to add further security to your storage unit.
Bulky Items
You mustn’t store a large number of items in your self-storage unit. You need to leave space between each item so that they do not all crowd space. You also need to remember to store goods tall so that they are not damaged.
Signs
Make sure that there are clear signs that state what type of items are permitted and what sort of items are not permitted in the unit. This will help you identify what is allowed and what is not as well. Again, it is advisable to invest in high-quality self-storage boxes to ensure that you do not damage your items.
Keys
As with any storage unit, you must lock up keys. It may even be a good idea to keep a spare key with you at all times. Do not keep a spare key in your pocket, purse or wallet, as you could easily lose it. It is also a good idea to get a spare passcode for emergencies only.
Storing Sensitive Items
Before storing any items, you must test them first to see if they are safe. Do not store items like jewellery in your freezer. They must be stored in a cool and dry place. Also, items such as your computer and other electronics should be securely wrapped using packaging tapes. Never put small valuables in medium-sized storage boxes, as these can be lost easily.
Contents Insurance
Take out adequate insurance cover for all of your valuable items. The cost of insurance will depend on how much you are willing to store. Also, it is worth thinking about taking out insurance for items that are particularly expensive or valuable. If you have expensive items such as works of art, you could consider insuring them under a special scheme called ‘excess claim’. However, bear in mind that if you are unable to claim all of your items, you could lose out on up to interest on them.
As well as the basics, there are some additional things that you should think about when storing your possessions at a self-storage unit. Ask how safe the facility is. Make sure there is a contract with a key code. Read the terms and conditions of the contract carefully. Be wary of hidden fees.
Cleanliness
Are the rooms clean at all times? Are they kept clean at all times? Are shelves and boxes kept organized? Are all of the equipment, such as racks, buckets, boxes etc, kept in proper storage containers? Are all of the maintenance devices working correctly?
As you can see from the advice in this article, there are some extra details to take into consideration when you are considering how a self-storage unit is going to work for you. How much space do you need? How many items do you want to store?
If you follow these hints, then you are more likely to find the self-storage unit that is right for you. You should also keep an eye on how your unit is going to work with other items in your home. If you plan to leave some of your items behind while you are renting a unit, make sure that the storage facility has a return policy in place. If not, you could end up having damaged or items that you cannot return.