Self-storage is exploding in popularity. Driven in part by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the subsequent shift to remote work, countless individuals and families have realized the benefits of decluttering their homes. If you’re one of the millions of people who will rent a storage unit for the first time this year, there are many things to consider before you sign a rental agreement. Read on for our definitive storage unit rental guide for newcomers to help you find a unit that exceeds your expectations.
Look for a Storage Company That Provides Serious Security
Self-storage is growing in popularity, but you shouldn’t select a unit until you verify that the facility prioritizes security. Advancements in technology have allowed storage units to become safer than ever. Security features you should look for include:
- Access-controlled facility
- Alarms on each unit
- Complete security camera coverage
- Bright lights
- Perimeter fence
- Onsite manager
Choose a Storage Campus in a Safe, Convenient Area
While you can likely find a ridiculously cheap storage unit right off the freeway or in an industrialized area, keep in mind that thieves target locations that offer a fast getaway. Instead of selecting a cheap storage unit rental in a less than desirable area, look for a facility in a low-traffic or residential area. This reduces the likelihood of theft.
Select a Unit that Has Measures in Place to Safeguard Your Belongings
You should find a unit that provides protection for humidity, extreme heat, extreme cold, and moisture. In other words, you’ll want a climate-controlled facility. Likewise, before agreeing to rent a storage unit, ask about pest control. Rodents can destroy your property in just days.
Make Sure the Facility Has the Right Size Storage Unit Available
Before you waste time visiting a facility, call and see what size storage lockers or units are available. If you only need to house the contents of a single room, you may only need a 5′ x 5′ or 5′ x 10′ unit. Don’t let yourself get talked into a larger unit that you don’t need just because the storage facility doesn’t have the size you want. You may also want to inquire about the process for moving to a larger unit if you think you may store more items in the future. For this reason, it’s smart to find a storage company that has a variety of unit sizes.
Ask the Manager to Go Over the Storage Unit Rental Contract with You
Before you sign a storage unit rental agreement, make sure that you go over the fine print with the manager or leasing agent. Make sure you understand these points:
- Length of the rental agreement
- Penalties if you remove your items before your contract ends
- Penalties for late payments
- Process for reporting theft
- Insurance coverage provided by the facility
- Optional insurance you can purchase
- Items that are prohibited from being stored
- Rules about working in your storage unit
- Hours of accessibility to your unit
- Annual or monthly cost of your storage unit rental
By going over the rental agreement line-by-line, you’ll be in the best position to determine if a particular storage unit is right for your needs.
Storage Unit Rental in Lane County
Armored Storage is the most secure public storage facility in Lane County. With 20 assorted sizes of storage units to choose from, Armored Storage puts the needs of customers first. Our emphasis on providing unmatched security has earned us top reviews on Google. Security measures include alarms on all units, intercom-controlled access, perimeter fencing, and more than 50 security cameras. All storage units are climate-controlled and pest-controlled. Contact us to learn more by calling 541.688.1301.