Self-Storage
[ https://www.houzz.com/magazine/a-guide-to-self-storage-what-to-ask-before-you-rent-stsetivw-vs~103277150 ]
About 1 in 10 U.S. households put their excess stuff in a mini storage unit. Some of them will lose part or all of it because of theft, default, negligence or a catastrophic event. To lower the chances of this happening to you, know what to ask before you rent and whether you’re covered by insurance. If possible, visit the prospective facility, including at night. If that’s impractical, try to get as much information as you can about the following topics.
Building and location
How is the building constructed? Is it in good condition? Is it in a safe, well-lit area or one that’s high in crime? What about its potential for flooding? Is it near any businesses that could attract vermin? Does it offer exterior and interior units? Is it single- or multistory?
Cleanliness
Is the place tidy? How often does it get cleaned? Does it have a pest-extermination contract in place? What are you required to do to keep your unit clean? If a facility isn’t regularly and thoroughly cleaned, there’s a chance that bug and rodent infestations won’t be discovered.
Access
Are you the only one who can enter your unit, or can the landlord get in to, say, make a repair? Is your access restricted or 24/7? If it’s by appointment, how much notice is required? Under what circumstances could the landlord lock you out, and how do you regain access? How do you reach your unit? Do you need drive-up access, or can you get by with a trolley and an elevator? How wide are the driveways? Do you need a wheelchair-accessible unit?
Restrictions
Is there a value limit on what you can store in the unit? What can’t you store in it? Typically, restrictions prohibit anything perishable, hazardous, noxious, flammable, explosive or illegal, along with plants, animals and people. “Some allow band practice,” says Alexander Harris, web editor for SpareFoot.com, a marketplace for finding and reserving storage. “But generally the facilities aren’t zoned for habitation.”
Payment and delinquency or default
What ...
Victoria Villeneuve
February 10th, 2018