Important Questions to Ask When Renting a Storage Unit

Renting a storage unit is a solution to a wide number of problems, in both professional and personal capacities. However, there are many things you should consider before making that decision.

Hence, the team at Acceptable Storage would like you to know what to look for if you have questions about storage units.

1. What Are The Facility’s Access Hours?

This will determine when you can retrieve your stored items and when you can get help during emergencies.

Do note that most storage facilities have office hours that are separate from access hours. This allows you to use your storage unit at times when employees are unavailable. These office hours tend to hew closely to typical office hours (8 am – 6 pm) with the possibility of Saturday as well.

Access hours of some facilities are 24/7, others will have strict requirements concerning overnight access and some others might have access hours that match up with their business hours. You should be aware of the time limitations before renting a storage unit.

2. What Is The Minimum Commitment Required?

Before renting a storage unit, you need to understand the period the agreement for the unit will cover. This will allow you to rent out a unit for only as long as you need it.

Some storage providers rent out their units on a month-to-month basis while others offer a week-to-week agreement. But some renters will require that you rent out the unit for a minimum period. If the minimum rental period is much longer than you need, it is probably best to find a different provider.

3. How Secure Are My Belongings?

Security for your stored items is an important consideration when renting a storage unit. If the unit is incapable of keeping your property away from malicious actors, then it should not be used.

Common security measures for storage facilities include fences, lighting, cameras (for surveillance), and gated access. Other measures include alarms for individual units and security personnel on the premises.

It’s a good idea to ask for a security walkthrough before making a final decision. If they meet your standards, then the decision becomes easier.

4. Is There Insurance For My Belongings?

Property insurance can be a point of contention between the storage provider and the renter.

Some facilities provide it for those who want it while others require the renter to sign up for their insurance. At the same time, some providers do not offer it and leave it up to the renter’s discretion. As such, insurance provides another wrinkle in finding a storage unit. 

It is always best to inquire about the insurance at the storage facility and be fully informed of your options.

5. Are The Units Climate Controlled?

If you need to store items that require particular conditions to limit degradation, then this is crucial storage unit information. However, these units tend to be more expensive than regular storage units so if you don’t need the climate control functionality, don’t get it.

Many storage providers offer these kinds of storage units but not all of them do. If you need climate-controlled storage units, ask for them.

Acceptable Storage – Ottawa’s Most Affordable Storage Units

When renting a storage unit, a lack of research and education can create a bad situation for you and your property. Always conduct research and find out as much as you can about the unit and its provider before making a decision.

Please contact us if you need a secure and affordable storage unit. Acceptable Storage offers a wide range of storage units for a wide range of belongings. We offer round-the-clock security for all our storage units and we are dedicated to ensuring the safety of your property.