BOISE – As the summer starts to wind down, some families will look for ways to free up space at home, including some that are sending a college student off to school. AAA is sharing tips when considering a self-storage facility.
According to the Self Storage Association, 10% of all American households rent storage space, and there is an estimated seven square feet of storage space for every person in the country.
“You may need to get some things out of the way, but that doesn’t mean that you want your valuables exposed to theft or damage,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Make sure you find a facility that checks all the boxes for safety and security.”
7 tips for picking the perfect self-storage facility
- Make sure adequate security measures are in place, including a fence around the property, controlled access, and around-the-clock video surveillance.
- Inspect a storage unit to make sure it is clean and well-maintained. Look for areas where water could infiltrate the space.
- Make sure the facility has units that are the right size for your current and future needs.
- Check out climate-control systems, especially if you plan to store furniture, books, clothing, and other items that may be affected by a damp environment or extreme temperatures.
- Ask about rodent and pest control strategies.
- If you’re storing large items, choose a space that is easily accessible for a pickup truck or delivery vehicle.
- If you have any doubts about the protection of your belongings, you may want to check with the local police department about any incidents at the facility.
“As with any other contract, you’ll want to read the fine print and make sure you understand the terms and conditions as well as the timing of payments,” Conde said. “Check with your insurance agent to make sure your policy covers your belongings in a storage space.”