Questions to ask before renting a storage unit

Renting a storage unit can be daunting because it is not something one does regularly.  Here are some helpful tips and questions to ask when you are doing your research for renting a storage unit in Calgary.  Before renting a storage unit in Calgary, it's essential to ask relevant questions to ensure the facility meets your needs and expectations.   A great place to start is to do a google search and type in “storage unit near me” because an important factor in your overall experience with your storage unit is that it is convenient for you to get to.   Many storage customers choose storage facilities that are close to where they live or work, or both. 

The storage facility’s website should be informative and representative of what you might expect at that particular location.  Looking through the images and google reviews can give you a sense as to what to expect from the storage facility overall.  This makes it easy to stop by the storage facility to grab a few things when needed. 

Here are some important questions to ask yourself and the storage facility when doing your research:

Storage facility and storage unit specifics:

• What sizes of units are available?
• Is there a size recommendation based on my items?
• Are there climate-controlled units available?
• Can I switch to a larger or smaller unit if needed?
• Is the unit accessible by vehicle, and are there loading docks or elevators?

Storage Facility Security Measures:

• What security measures are in place (surveillance cameras, gated access, on-site staff)?
• What security measures are taken to prevent damage or theft?
• Are there individual locks on each unit, or do I need to provide my own lock?

Access and Hours:

• What are the facility's access hours?
• Is there 24/7 access, or are there specific hours of operation?
• Are there any restrictions on accessing the unit?

Rental Terms and Payments:

• What are the rental terms and payment options (monthly, quarterly, annually)?
• Are there any hidden fees or additional costs?
• Is there a grace period for payments?
• What happens if I'm late on a payment?

Insurance and Liability:

• Is insurance required for stored items?
• What does the insurance cover in case of damage or loss?

Facility Policies: 

• Are there any restrictions on items that can be stored?
• Can I store hazardous materials, perishables, or flammable items?
• Are there rules regarding noise, cleanliness, or overall behavior and use of the storage facility?

Customer Service and Maintenance:

• What is the best way to get a hold of storage facility staff
• How often are the units checked for maintenance or pest control?
• What procedures are in place for reporting problems or concerns?

Cancellation and Move-Out Procedures:

• What is the process for canceling the storage unit rental?
• How far in advance do I need to notify the facility before moving out?

Asking these questions of the storage facility team, together with your google search for “a storage unit near me” will help you make an informed decision and ensure that the storage facility meets your specific requirements and expectations before renting a storage unit in Calgary.