If you are renting a storage unit or looking to rent one soon, there are some things that you need to know about what is - and isn’t - legal to store.
Home Away from Home?
You signed a lease and paid your rent, so does that mean you can treat the storage unit like a tiny apartment? The answer is: no. Not only is it illegal to live in a storage unit, but facilities also are not designed nor equipped to house living beings. Do not leave animals, plants, or children within a storage unit even if it is only “for a minute.” So for everyone’s safety, only store non-hazardous belongings in your unit.
Hazardous Materials
The definition for hazardous materials is any item that can cause death, injury, or damage to the environment. This includes:
Poisonous materials
Tires
Batteries
Fertilizers
Gasoline
Propane
Propane bottles
Taxidermy materials
Paints
Ammunition
Explosives
Compressed air
Compressors with tanks
Asbestos
Corrosives
Pollutants
Unlawful or stolen items
Drugs (illegal and prescription)
Flammable materials
Perishables and Scents
One of the best ways to attract rodents into your unit is to store food, beverages, and other perishable items. As mentioned in a previous post, rodents have more smell receptors in their brains making their sense of smell stronger than a human’s. Even though your food might be stored in an airtight canister, rodents will smell it anyway, and their teeth are strong enough to chew through metal. Avoid storing scented candles, which will also attract rodents into your unit.
Wet/Damp Items
While it’s okay to store your sports equipment when out of season, it’s important to make certain that none of your items are stored wet. Dampness can breed mold, particularly in a storage unit. So after your hose down your tents and scrub your gear clean, make sure to let them have plenty of time to dry.
Unsure if something is okay to store? Feel free to contact us at 1-877-701-3388. One of our friendly managers will be happy to answer your questions.
Find your nearest Towne Storage facility at www.townestorage.com