Thinking of renting out a unit from a self-storage facility as a means of solving your storage woes? If so, then you'll want to begin by calculating how much space you're going to need for your extra stuff, along with which facility near you offers the best rates and highest quality of service. Before you sign the paperwork on a storage facility rental, however, there are some things you need to know.
Paying Extra for Climate Control Might Be Worth It
Depending on what you're storing and the climate in which you live, it might be worth it for you to rent out a storage facility that's climate controlled. This is especially true if you live in a hot and humid region; without a climate-controlled unit, your belongings could be subjected to mold and mildew growth from the excess moisture in the air. On the other hand, if you're storing something made to withstand the outdoors--such as a recreational vehicle--you're probably better off going with a traditional storage unit and saving yourself some money in the process.
Lack of Planning Can Create a Headache
When it comes time to move your belongings into your storage unit, it can be tempting to simply toss all your boxes and furniture haphazardly into the unit so you can get on with your day. However, you'll want to have at least some form of a game plan when it comes to storing your items. Otherwise, you'll have a hard time accessing them down the road. Specifically, try to leave a walking path down the middle of your storage unit, and keep larger furniture items that you don't plan on needing anytime soon stored along the perimeter. This will make smaller items and items you may need to access in the near future more easily accessible.
You're Responsible for Insurance Coverage
Finally, understand that in most cases, your storage facility isn't responsible for your belongings, so you'll want to have them insured. If you're a homeowner, check with your home insurance agent; items placed in self-storage may already be covered by that policy. If not, or if you're not a homeowner, check with your storage facility, one like Colfax West Self Storage, to see if they offer an insurance policy that you can add onto your monthly rental rate. Or, if you'd like to save money, consider shopping around for coverage from an independent insurance company to protect your personal belongings.
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