5 Things You Should Know Before You Rent Storage Space
The first tip, most people rent more space than is really necessary. Believe it or not, a one-bedroom apartment around 1000 sq. ft can be stored in a 10×10 unit. You stand couches on end and stack boxes all the way to the ceiling.
Tip 2. It rains a lot in Redding. If it?s possible, visit a storage facility the day after a rainstorm and ask to see the actual unit you would be renting, once inside check for any puddles on the floor or water stains on the walls. Many times, water stains will remain on the floor and walls after the last rain. Since most facilities would not be responsible for water damage to your goods, this tip could save you lots of money.
Tip 3. As I mentioned in Tip 2, storage facilities are generally not responsible for the contents of your unit. It is always a good idea to insure the goods you?re intending to store. Storage insurance is almost always available to you when you first sign up. Sometimes the facility collects the premium from you directly. When they do this, they usually have a financial interest in doing so. Before the manager at the front desk tries to sell you insurance on the spot, check with your own agent, many times your home owner?s or renter?s insurance policy will cover you at no extra charge.
Tip 4. If for any reason you decide not to take out insurance, here are a few ways to prevent the possible loss of items due to theft. When packing your storage unit, place valuable items such as electronics, tools, guns, near the back of the unit, out of sight and difficult to reach quickly. When your door is open be alert to any strangers around that may be trying to get a good look inside your unit. What they don?t see won?t tempt them. If you notice someone lurking around your unit, report them to the manager immediately.
Tip 5. Some facilities still charge a deposit and even worse, administration fees just to fill out the paperwork. These fees can easily add up to over $30.00. Many times the customer does not find this out until they are signing up with their first truck load waiting. Be sure to ask over the phone before you show up if there are ?hidden? charges in additional to the rental rate you were quoted.
Now that you are ready to shop around, I can’t stress enough the importance of visiting each facility you call. Take a look around and make your own decision based on appearances of each facility and the condition of the units they offer, because no two facilities are the same!