6 Easy Tips Insurance Companies Say You Should Follow When Renting a Self-Storage Unit
Posted August 2022
1. USE A DISC OR CYLINDER LOCK
These locks provide a higher level of security compared to other locks. The closed shackle of a disc lock would be nearly impossible to penetrate with a bolt cutter, and since they have more pins, disc locks are considered "anti-pick'. The dual locking mechanism makes it impervious to prying, as well. Disc padlocks have the reputation as the number one safest padlock.
2. COVER YOUR ITEMS WITH PLASTIC SHEETS
This will better protect your items from dust, moisture, etc. While there is considerably less of this to worry about in a climate controlled self-storage unit, dust is everywhere. Especially if you are storing anything that isn’t in a box or container, or wrapped in plastic, such as a sofa, you will want to cover it. The longer it will be stored the more important this becomes.
3. KEEP MOISTURE SENSITIVE ITEMS OFF OF THE FLOOR
Pallets, shelving, or other supports should be used to elevate your items. Specifically if you are using a drive-up outside access facility, flash flooding, sudden temperature changes, and hot humid summers can all cause your items sitting directly on the floor to become damp or wet, and to eventually mold and mildew.
4. DO NOT STORE “VALUABLES”
Jewelry, currency, or other valuable items should not be stored. Consider a safety deposit box with your bank or financial institution. Or at the very least, keep them in a safe place with a trusted friend or relative.
5. DO NOT STORE FLAMMABLE OR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Storing items such as chemicals, gasoline, pesticides, acid, paint thinner, cleaning supplies, fireworks and explosives are dangerous to you and the facility. Even gas powered small engines that still contain the fuel and oil can be a problem and are usually not allowed in most self-storage facilities.
6. MAKE AN INVENTORY OF YOUR STORED ITEMS
Keep a written copy of your inventory in safe place. Start by labeling every box on the top and on at least one side with a unique box number, the room it came from, and the contents. Keeping a record of box numbers and their contents will come in handy when trying to find things quickly, and more importantly, it will help expedite a claim.
At Sixty5 Self Storage we want our tenants to feel as comfortable storing their items with us as they would in their own spare bedroom, garage or basement. With just a few simple steps, together we can create that extra peace of mind.