What Items Aren’t Allowed in Storage Units?
When it comes to storing items in a storage unit, knowing what you can and cannot bring is important. In general, most storage facilities do not allow hazardous materials, flammable items or anything that would create an unsafe environment. There are also several other specific types of items not allowed in self-storage units.
1. Perishables:
Storing perishable items such as food, plants or animals is not allowed in self-storage units. Open containers of water, such as a bucket or tank, are also not allowed.Perishables can attract pests and create odors that may lead to damage of other stored items or other units.
2. Toxic Substances:
Toxic materials are strictly prohibited in storage units. This includes any hazardous chemicals, explosives, or flammable liquids. Any item that is considered to be a hazardous waste material is also not allowed.
3. Firearms:
All firearms, including BB guns and paintball guns, are not allowed in storage units as they present a threat to the safety of other customers and facility staff. Storing a gun in a storage unit can lead to significant repercussions.
4. Drugs:
Illegal drugs, pharmaceuticals and drug paraphernalia are not allowed in storage units. In the past, storage units have been used to store illegal drugs, and as a result, storage facilities have taken steps to prevent them from being used for this purpose such as security cameras and an open monitoring process.
5. Living Things:
This means that no living creatures of any kind can be stored, including plants, animals or people. Sometimes an individual will rent a storage unit and attempt to use it as lodging in times of need, but there are strict rules and laws preventing this, and these squatters are removed, and contracts terminated.
6. Vehicles:
Most self-storage facilities do not allow customers to store motorized vehicles in their units. This includes cars, boats, motorcycles, and other recreational vehicles. These items take up too much space, and they are not allowed due to the potential for damage that can be caused by fluids, sparks or other hazards.
7. Fireworks:
Self-storage units are not the right place to store fireworks, as they pose a safety risk to the facility and other customers. Proper storage of fireworks requires special handling and safety protocols that can only be met in a designated fireworks storage area.
8. Unsanitary Items:
Any item that presents a health hazard is not allowed in storage facilities. This includes items like wet paint or old mattresses that may contain bacteria or pests. It also includes items that can be a breeding ground for mold or mildew, such as wet clothing or damp furniture.
It is important to familiarize yourself with your storage facility’s list of prohibited items before moving any of your belongings into a storage unit. Doing so will help ensure you are able to store your items safely and securely without running the risk of having them confiscated. It may also be helpful to ask for additional clarification from the storage facility to make sure you understand all their policies and regulations.
By understanding what is not allowed in a storage unit, you can make sure that your belongings are safe and secure during their time in storage. Be sure to ask your local storage facility about any specific items you may be unsure of before packing them away!
