Safe and Stored: How to Choose the Right Storage Facility

Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or simply seeking extra space, selecting the right storage facility is crucial to safeguarding your belongings. The self-storage industry has seen significant growth and changes in recent years, so making an informed decision is more important than ever.

Industry Overview
As of 2024, the U.S. self-storage industry boasts over 52,000 facilities, generating approximately $23.6 billion in annual revenue. Texas leads the nation with more than 5,500 facilities, reflecting the state’s high demand for storage solutions. And demand remains high with occupancy rates near 90% nationwide.

“Choosing a storage facility isn’t just about space – or cost – it’s about trust, “said Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Central East Texas. “Before handing over your valuables, take time to research, ask questions, and understand the fine print. A little homework now can save you a lot of heartache later.”

While storage facilities offer convenience, be mindful of the issues reported by consumers, including:

• Unauthorized Access and Theft: Instances of break-ins and stolen items have been reported, with some customers alleging inadequate security measures.
• Pest Infestations: Grievances about rodent and insect infestations leading to damaged goods are not uncommon.
• Billing Disputes: Sudden rent increases and unexpected fees have led to customer dissatisfaction and disputes with storage facilities.
• Insurance Challenges: Some customers have faced difficulties with insurance claims, particularly when policies are sold through the storage facility itself.

 

To ensure a positive storage experience, BBB recommends the following:

Research and Compare: Obtain written estimates from multiple facilities. Inquire about all potential fees, including administrative costs, late payment penalties, and charges for additional services like climate control or insurance.

Assess Security Measures: Choose facilities equipped with robust security features, such as surveillance cameras, gated access, and on-site personnel. Ensure that the facility maintains a secure environment to protect your belongings.

Understand the Contract: Carefully review the rental agreement. Pay attention to terms regarding rent increases, access hours, termination policies, and liability clauses. Ensure that all verbal promises are documented in writing.

Verify Insurance Coverage: Determine whether your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy covers items stored off-site. If not, consider purchasing insurance through a reputable third-party provider. Be cautious of insurance policies offered directly by storage facilities, and understand the terms and coverage limits.

Physically inspect the Unit: Before signing a contract, visit the facility to inspect the unit for cleanliness, structural integrity, and signs of pests. Confirm that climate-controlled units maintain appropriate temperature and humidity levels.

Monitor Your Account on a Regular Basis: Check your billing statements regularly to ensure accuracy. Set reminders for payment due dates to avoid late fees or potential loss of access to your unit. Make sure you are up-to-date on your payments. You don’t want your storage unit to be labeled “abandoned” and put up for auction.

Stay Informed
Staying vigilant and informed can help you avoid common pitfalls associated with self-storage rentals. Go to bbb.org to find a trustworthy storage facility near you.

Visit BBB.org to review customer feedback, BBB Accreditation status, and other pertinent business details. These insights can guide your decision-making process. Here are BBB’s tips for what to consider before renting, what to watch for when shopping for a storage unit, preparing to visit storage units, and how to identify scams.

ABOUT BBB: The Better Business Bureau has empowered people to find businesses, brands, and charities they can trust for over 110 years. In 2024, people turned to BBB more than 218 million times for BBB Business Profiles on 5.3 million businesses, and 80,000 times for BBB charity reports on about 12,000 charities, for free at BBB.org. The International Association of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for the local, independent BBBs in the United States and Canada. BBB Serving Central East Texas was founded in 1985 and serves 19 counties in East Texas