In today’s fast-paced world, our lives are characterized by constant movement. Whether it’s a temporary work assignment, downsizing, or simply decluttering your living space, the need for additional storage often becomes inevitable. But, it’s not just about finding any old space to keep your valuables; it’s about finding a spot that guarantees their safety and your peace of mind. Welcome to the world of safe and secure self storage.
Safe and secure self storage facilities have emerged as a game-changer for many. They are the answer to a multitude of storage-related concerns: from ensuring your heirlooms remain untouched by time to making sure your essential documents are protected from unforeseen accidents. But how does one navigate this industry and determine which facility truly lives up to its promise of being “safe and secure”?
In this blog post, we will delve deep into the intricacies of self storage, helping you understand why security matters, the advanced features that modern facilities provide, and how you can make informed decisions when selecting a storage space. So, if you’re thinking about storing your belongings, stick around and arm yourself with knowledge that will ensure they remain in pristine condition. Let’s embark on this journey of discovery together.
When considering “the best” safe and secure self-storage options, it’s essential to keep in mind that the best choice depends on your specific needs, location, and preferences. However, here are some general guidelines and recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
Reputation and Reviews
Reputation and reviews play a critical role in assessing the quality and reliability of any business, including safe and secure self storage facilities. They provide insights from customers who have firsthand experience with the service. Here’s how to effectively use reputation and reviews in making a decision:
- Sources of Reviews:
- Online Review Platforms: Websites like Google My Business, Yelp, and Trustpilot allow customers to leave feedback about their experiences.
- Specialized Websites: There are sites specifically for reviewing storage facilities, like SpareFoot.
- Social Media: Check the company’s social media profiles (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) to see comments, reviews, and any potential interactions they’ve had with customers.
- Reading and Analyzing Reviews:
- Look for Patterns: One negative review doesn’t necessarily mean the facility is bad. Similarly, one positive review doesn’t guarantee excellence. Look for patterns or recurring themes in reviews.
- Recent Reviews: Prioritize newer reviews as they reflect the company’s current state and practices. Older reviews may pertain to issues that have since been resolved.
- Depth of Feedback: Detailed reviews often provide more insight than shorter ones. If a reviewer took the time to write a comprehensive review, it might contain valuable information.
- Responded Reviews:
- Check if the company responds to both positive and negative reviews. How they handle negative feedback can be very telling. A professional, constructive response to criticism shows a company that cares about its customers and reputation.
- Fake Reviews:
- Be aware of the possibility of fake reviews. Some companies may artificially inflate their ratings. If you see a sudden surge of overly positive, vague reviews, approach with caution.
- Authentic reviews tend to be more detailed, discussing specific experiences or staff members.
- Ask Around:
- Beyond online reviews, word-of-mouth can be valuable. Friends, family, colleagues, or neighbors might have personal experiences they can share.
- BBB Ratings:
- The Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides ratings and customer complaints about businesses. A good BBB rating and few unresolved complaints can be a positive sign.
- Using Reviews for Negotiation:
- If you see consistent feedback about something you’re concerned about (e.g., pricing or specific terms), you can use this information when negotiating your contract.
Remember, while reviews are a powerful tool, they are just one part of the decision-making process. Always combine them with your research, such as visiting the facility in person, assessing security measures, and comparing contract terms.
Security Measures
Security measures are paramount when selecting a safe and secure self storage facility. After all, you are entrusting the facility with your possessions, and you want to be assured that they will be kept safe from theft, damage, or other issues. Here are the primary security measures to consider:
- Video Surveillance:
- A facility should have 24/7 CCTV or video surveillance. Cameras should be strategically placed at entry and exit points, hallways, and other common areas.
- Ask if the surveillance footage is regularly monitored and how long it’s stored.
- Alarmed Units:
- Individual alarms for each storage unit can provide an added layer of security. If someone tries to break into a unit, the alarm would sound.
- Secure Fencing and Gating:
- Perimeter fencing and a gated entrance help deter unauthorized access.
- Walls and barriers should be in good condition, without gaps or easy access points.
- On-site Staff or Security Patrol:
- Facilities with a regular staff presence or security patrols can provide an added layer of protection.
- Some facilities might also have a resident manager living on-site.
- Keycard or Electronic Gate Access:
- Electronic access systems require a unique PIN or a keycard. This restricts access only to customers and staff and keeps track of who enters or leaves the facility.
- Adequate Lighting:
- Well-lit premises can deter potential thieves. It also ensures you can access your unit safely during the evenings.
- Lock Quality:
- While you often provide your lock, some facilities offer or require specific high-security locks. Ensure whatever lock you use is sturdy and tamper-resistant.
- Door Construction and Quality:
- Storage unit doors should be robust and in good repair. Metal roll-up doors are common and can be quite secure when combined with a quality lock.
- Controlled Access Within Facility:
- In larger facilities, it might be beneficial if customers can only access the floor or section where their unit is located.
- Security Guards:
- While not all facilities will have this, security guards can be a significant deterrent to potential thieves.
- Fire Safety and Smoke Detectors:
- While this pertains more to the protection of items from damage than theft, ensure the facility has working smoke alarms and, if possible, sprinkler systems in place.
- Pest Control:
- Regular pest control measures ensure that your belongings aren’t damaged by rodents or insects.
- Cybersecurity:
- If you’re using online payment systems or account management with the storage facility, ensure they have adequate cybersecurity measures to protect your personal and financial information.
When considering a self-storage facility, always visit in person to assess security measures. Ask questions and raise any concerns with the staff or management. Your peace of mind is essential, so ensure that you’re comfortable with the level of security provided.
Climate-Controlled Units
Climate-controlled units are essential for those looking to store items that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and humidity. These units provide a controlled environment that protects your belongings from extreme cold, heat, and moisture. Let’s delve into the specifics of climate-controlled storage for safe and secure self storage:
- What Does Climate-Controlled Mean?
- Typically, climate-controlled units maintain a temperature between 55°F and 85°F (13°C and 29°C). This range can vary slightly depending on the facility.
- Some units also offer humidity control, ensuring the humidity levels are kept at a safe range (often between 30% to 50%).
- Benefits of Climate-Controlled Units:
- Protection from Extreme Temperatures: Items like electronics, vinyl records, and certain types of furniture can get damaged in extreme cold or heat.
- Humidity Control: Too much moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and damage to items like documents, clothing, and artwork.
- Dust and Debris: Climate-controlled units are often better sealed than regular units, reducing the amount of dust and debris that can enter.
- Pest Reduction: The consistent environment can deter pests that might be attracted to more extreme conditions.
- Items Typically Stored in Climate-Controlled Units:
- Electronics
- Wooden and leather furniture
- Musical instruments
- Vinyl records
- Artwork and photographs
- Wine
- Important documents and books
- Clothing (especially if stored long-term)
- Antiques and collectibles
- Factors to Consider:
- Location and Climate: If you’re in an area with extreme seasonal changes, high humidity, or significant temperature fluctuations, a climate-controlled unit is advisable.
- Duration of Storage: Items stored for a short period might not need climate control, but if you’re planning long-term storage, it becomes more crucial.
- Value of Items: Consider both the monetary and sentimental value. Some things might be irreplaceable and warrant the extra protection.
- Cost:
- Climate-controlled units are generally more expensive than standard units because of the added cost of maintaining the environment. Weigh the additional cost against the potential cost of replacing or repairing damaged items.
- Access:
- Check if there’s any difference in access times or convenience between climate-controlled units and standard ones at the facility. Some climate-controlled areas might be indoors or in multi-story buildings.
- Unit Inspection:
- When considering a climate-controlled unit, inspect it in person. Check for signs of moisture, listen to see if you can hear the HVAC system working, and ask about maintenance routines.
- Other Considerations:
- Some facilities might label their units as “temperature-controlled” rather than “climate-controlled.” The former typically means they only control the temperature, not the humidity. Ensure you understand the difference and choose what’s right for your needs.
If you have items that you think could be affected by temperature or humidity, investing in a climate-controlled unit is a wise choice. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your belongings are preserved in a stable environment.
Insurance
When storing belongings in a safe and secure self storage facility, having insurance coverage is critical to protect against potential loss or damage. Here are some key aspects to consider regarding insurance for storage units:
- Types of Risks Covered:
- Most storage insurance policies cover risks such as fire, theft, smoke, vandalism, water damage (excluding flooding), tornadoes, and other natural disasters. It’s essential to review any policy for specific inclusions and exclusions.
- Facility’s Policy vs. Your Policy:
- Facility’s Policy: This covers damage to the building or infrastructure itself but not the contents of individual storage units. Even if a facility says they have insurance, it doesn’t mean your items are covered.
- Your Policy: This covers the contents you’ve stored. It could be a policy offered through the storage facility or your existing renters or homeowners insurance.
- Homeowners and Renters Insurance:
- Some homeowners or renters insurance policies might extend coverage to items stored off-site. However, the coverage limit might be reduced for belongings not kept at the primary residence (often 10% of the total personal property coverage).
- It’s also essential to check if certain perils or risks excluded when items are stored off-site.
- Dedicated Storage Insurance:
- If your existing policy doesn’t cover stored items or if you want additional coverage, many storage facilities offer dedicated storage insurance.
- This insurance can be advantageous because it’s explicitly tailored for items in storage and might cover specific risks that a standard policy would exclude.
- Valuation Coverage:
- Some storage facilities might offer valuation coverage rather than insurance. It sets a maximum amount the facility will pay for lost or damaged items. It’s not as comprehensive as insurance but offers some level of protection.
- Coverage Limits:
- Ensure the policy’s coverage limit matches the value of your stored belongings. If you’re storing high-value items, you might need to purchase additional coverage.
- Premium Costs:
- The cost of the insurance premium will vary based on the coverage amount, location of the storage facility, security features of the facility, and specific risks covered.
- Documentation:
- Keep a detailed inventory of items in storage, including their estimated values. Photographs or video recordings can be beneficial. This documentation will be crucial in case of a claim.
- Save receipts for high-value items.
- Claim Process:
- Familiarize yourself with the claim process before purchasing insurance. Understand what’s required to file a claim, the timeline for processing, and any potential deductibles.
- Exclusions:
- Always be aware of policy exclusions. For example, flooding is commonly excluded from many standard policies. If your storage unit is in a flood-prone area, you might need to purchase additional flood insurance.
Well-known Storage Brands
Several well-known self-storage brands operate in the United States and internationally. These companies have established a significant presence due to their extensive networks, customer service, and range of services offered. As of my last training cut-off in September 2021, here are some prominent storage brands:
- Public Storage:
- One of the most recognized names in the self-storage industry, Public Storage has thousands of locations across the U.S. and Europe. They offer a wide variety of unit sizes, including climate-controlled units.
- Extra Space Storage:
- Extra Space Storage is another large player in the self-storage industry with locations all over the U.S. They provide various storage solutions, including business storage, personal storage, and vehicle storage.
- U-Haul:
- While most known for their truck and trailer rentals, U-Haul also offers self-storage solutions. They have a unique product called U-Box, a portable storage container that customers can fill at their convenience.
- CubeSmart:
- CubeSmart provides a wide range of storage solutions, from standard units to vehicle storage. They also offer moving services, retail packing, and organizational products.
- Life Storage (formerly Uncle Bob’s Self Storage):
- Life Storage has locations in over 30 states. They offer various storage solutions, including wine storage in certain locations.
- StorageMart:
- With locations in the U.S., Canada, and the UK, StorageMart offers a variety of storage solutions, including standard units, warehouse spaces, and parking spaces.
- Simply Self Storage:
- They have facilities in multiple states and offer various storage unit sizes, including climate-controlled options.
- Sovran Self Storage (operates as Uncle Bob’s):
- Sovran is another significant player, with Uncle Bob’s being one of its recognizable brand names.
- Safeguard Self Storage:
- Safeguard has a presence in several major markets in the U.S., offering both personal and business storage solutions.
- National Storage Affiliates:
- This is a self-administered, self-managed real estate investment trust, dedicated to the ownership, operation, and acquisition of self-storage facilities.
These brands represent just a portion of the storage industry. Many independent operators and smaller chains offer high-quality services and might have specific amenities or features that differentiate them from the bigger players. When choosing a storage facility, always consider location, amenities, reviews, security measures, and price to ensure you select the best option for your needs.
Contract and Pricing
Understanding the contract and pricing is crucial when choosing a self-storage facility. Contracts govern the terms of use, and the pricing can vary widely based on multiple factors. Here are some key aspects to consider when evaluating storage contracts and pricing:
Contract
- Duration: Determine if the contract is month-to-month, which offers flexibility, or if it requires a longer commitment. Some facilities might offer discounts for longer lease terms.
- Termination: Understand the terms for ending the contract. Is there a notice period? Are there penalties for early termination?
- Access: Are there any restrictions on when you can access your unit? Some facilities offer 24/7 access, while others have specific hours.
- Insurance Requirement: Some contracts require renters to carry insurance for their stored belongings. Determine if this is mandatory and if the facility offers its insurance plan.
- Late Fees: Check the policy on late payments. How much is the fee, and when does it apply?
- Liabilities and Responsibilities: Understand who’s liable in various scenarios, like theft, damage, or natural disasters.
- Maintenance and Cleanliness: The contract might stipulate the condition in which the unit must be returned, e.g., broom-clean condition.
- Price Increases: Some contracts might have clauses that allow for periodic price increases. It’s good to be aware of when and how these might occur.
Pricing
- Base Rental Fee: This is the primary cost for renting the storage space. It will vary based on unit size, location, and other factors.
- Promotions: Many storage facilities offer promotional rates for the first month or other introductory periods. Make sure you understand when the promotional rate ends and what the regular rate will be.
- Security Deposit: Some facilities might require a security deposit that’s refundable upon ending the contract, assuming no damage or outstanding fees.
- Insurance Costs: If you opt for storage insurance through the facility, there will be an added monthly cost.
- Access or Administration Fees: Some facilities might charge a one-time administration fee when you first rent the unit. Others might charge fees for after-hours access.
- Climate-Controlled Units: These units generally cost more than standard units due to the extra equipment and energy needed to maintain the temperature and humidity.
- Additional Amenities: Features like individual alarms, video surveillance, or premium locations within the facility (e.g., ground floor or near the entrance) might come at higher costs.
- Late Fees: Be aware of any additional fees that might accrue if you’re late on payments.
- Locks: Some facilities might charge you for a lock, or you can bring your own.
- Pricing by Region: Generally, storage prices will be higher in urban or densely populated areas and lower in rural areas.
When choosing a self-storage facility, always read the contract thoroughly. If there’s anything you don’t understand or agree with, discuss it with the facility management. It’s also good to compare prices from multiple facilities, keeping in mind the specific features and amenities each one offers, to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
