(Newswire.net — February 25, 2023) — Self storage is an incredible way to get more space for your stuff, at an affordable price. It is suitable for both domestic and business users and has many different benefits. Of course, everything comes with its potential issues and it is important to avoid the following 18 mistakes so that you don’t encounter some of them when you’re choosing or using a local self-storage unit:
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Ignoring Signs Of Damp
Damp in a unit may present as a certain smell, as black mold, or as general signs of moisture in the unit. Ignoring these signs could cause your belongings to be damaged by mold spores and rot, so it is important to move units or have the facility fix the issue asap.
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Ignoring Signs Of Pests
Any pests in the London storage facility could cause extensive damage across the units, munching on, pooping in, and breeding in various different items. This needs to be flagged up to the staff immediately or if you spot it before signing a contract, consider choosing another facility.
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Storing Your Things Wet
Storing your items when they are wet or damp means you will get them out and they will be smelly and rotten. Worse, the mold spores will spread and you could find a lot of your paper, textiles, and other degradable items in a really bad state if the situation is not addressed. Always dry your things before storing them, and regularly check for signs of mold as you visit your unit.
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Stacking Your Things Too High
Stacking your things too high could result in the boxes falling on you, which is incredibly dangerous. They can also fall when you are not there causing the items themselves, or that they fall on, to break.
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Packing Your Unit Without A Walk Through
Packing a unit without a walkthrough causes a couple of issues. One problem is that it restricts airflow in the unit, which can cause a musty smell. Another issue is that it makes it very hard for you to get to your things when you need to. A walkthrough should always be planned when you pack a unit unless you are 100% positive you won’t be accessing it again until you unpack it.
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Not Considering Climate Control
Climate control is incredibly beneficial because it helps to keep the unit at a steady temperature. This means that there is no extreme heat or cold impacting your belongings, especially good news for items susceptible to extreme temperature damage, such as musical instruments.
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Taking The First Deal
Always shop around for the highest-value deal, not the cheapest. Get at least three quotes before you make a decision about which self-storage facility you will be using.
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Not Checking The Contract
Always check the small print no matter how highly recommended the facility is. It should be transparent, clear, and concise. If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask.
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Storing Banned Items
Never store banned items like flammables, perishables, living plants, or animals. If you are not sure, check with the facility first. You could be breaking contract or insurance rules, or even breaking the law if you store items that are banned.
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Using The Wrong-Sized Unit
You want a unit that is just right and although your unit may be the right size, your needs might change. It is important for you to transfer to a smaller or larger unit based on your current needs. You can usually do this with little notice, ensuring you always have enough room to store things comfortably and you’re not overpaying for space you don’t need.
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Not Discussing Falling Behind On Payments
If you think you may not make your payments, always speak to the facility manager. Hiding your troubles will only lead to debt building up and you potentially losing access to your things. The earlier you speak to them the more likely an arrangement is likely to be made.
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Ignoring The Need For Insurance
Insurance is so important and every facility should recommend you have your own insurance for your belongings. They are secure, but even so, the more coverage you can get in case the worst happens, the better.
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Never Visiting
If you can visit your unit regularly you can check for signs or mold or other problems that are better found sooner rather than later. You don’t have to visit, of course, but if you can air everything out every few months it is probably a good idea.
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Using Rubbish Packing Materials
Using incorrect packing materials could be problematic in lots of ways. It could make boxes unstable, the print could be transferred to items in the box, and acids in certain materials can damage clothing or paper. Always check the materials you are using to pack your unit are right.
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Not Prioritising Security
London storage facilities should have an impressive amount of security. CCTV, lighting, reception, lock points – it should impress you. If you feel it is lacking, move on and choose a different facility.
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Ignoring Signs Of Low Levels Of Maintenance
If you see signs of low maintenance like clutter, damage that gets ignored, rust, and other problems, it is a sign that the facility is not paying attention to detail. This is a clear sign you should not choose the facility, or you should choose a different one.
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Signing Up Despite Rude Staff
If staff are rude or unhelpful you probably won’t let it affect your day. But, imagine if you have a problem and you need them to help you, or you have to speak to them every day as you use the unit for business. Imagine how horrible that will feel if you have to deal with rude staff in those situations. If the staff are rude or unhelpful, move on and choose another facility – you don’t need bad customer service making things difficult for you.
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Not Keeping An Inventory
An inventory is a simple way for you to keep track of everything in your unit. Keep one when you pack everything and put it in the unit, and remember to keep it up to date, otherwise, things might just get a bit chaotic when it comes to keeping track of where they are.
Self-storage is important because it is keeping your things safe and secure. For that reason, it makes sense to think about the finer details, so inevitably your belongings stay in great condition, and you have great flexibility, rates, and customer service in the place that you use for this popular service.