Are you planning to lease a self-storage unit for the first time? Having the right information can enhance your storage experience. Here are some key tips that can support your decision-making process when renting a self-storage unit.  

Determine Your Storage Needs 

The first step when seeking self-storage solutions is to establish your storage needs. In this case, approximate the value of the items to assess your security needs. Keep in mind that state laws may limit the value of items kept in self-storage. Then, assess how fragile or durable the items are to determine whether you may require a climate-controlled storage facility. More so, evaluate the size of the storage unit you will require. Notably, avoid rough estimates since they can result in underestimating the area you need. Instead, develop an inventory of everything you intend to store. These considerations provide clarity and help to narrow down your search. 

Research Self-Storage Facilities

Finding the most suitable storage service provider requires some research. Start by deciding the location of a storage facility. The self-storage facility should be close to your residence. In this way, you will enjoy proximity benefits such as reduced time and lower costs whenever you visit the facility. Then, figure out whether you need an indoor or outdoor self-storage unit. Typically, outdoor storage is cheaper and allows you to drive up to your unit. However, you may want to opt for indoor storage when you have fragile items that require climate-controlled storage. 

Assess Security

Self-storage security is a major concern for tenants. In comparison to home storage, you will not have the benefit of keeping watch over the items. Thus, there is a need to secure your property from theft and damage. Largely, assess the security features available at the storage facilities, including security surveillance and guard patrols. Usually, the storage company will require the tenant to get property insurance for loss and damage. Thus, you can add the storage unit to your homeowner insurance coverage or purchase alternative third-party insurance through the storage service provider. In these ways, you will have assurance over property safety and a remedy for security breaches. 

Review the Lease Agreement 

As a best practice, review the self-storage contract before signing. Read through the clauses to verify that there are no omissions or new information. You should pay close attention to payment schedules and penalties. Then, understand how you can use the self-storage unit and what you can store. Also, review the process of vacating the self-storage facility. By doing so, you will reduce the risk of conflicts and the cost of penalties. 

Overall, the self-storage rental process requires making many decisions. Thus, understand your storage needs, select an ideal storage facility, assess security measures, and review the lease agreement whenever you rent a self-storage unit.