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If you’ve never rented a self-storage unit, you may have some preconceived notions about public storage facilities. You may have avoided contracting from these facilities because you’ve heard some common self-storage myths. Many myths aren’t true and can be debunked by visiting a reputable self-storage facility for a tour and asking a few questions. Consider these myths compared to the facts. 

Storage Facilities Aren’t Safe

Some people won’t rent self-storage units because they’ve heard they aren’t safe, but most storage facilities are more secure than you think. Storage companies take steps to make tenants feel comfortable during their visits and inspire confidence that they’re items are kept secure.

They often add security features to safeguard your belongings, including electronic controlled access gates, which require tenants to input their unique code to enter the facility. They may also use digital video cameras to provide monitoring and also ensure the facilities are well lit.

Although no storage facility is entirely theft-proof, choosing a facility with numerous security features reduces the risk of someone breaking in and stealing your belongings.

All Facilities Require Long-Term Contracts

You may have heard that public storage facilities require you to sign a long-term contract, but most facilities offer convenient month-to-month rentals. Some facilities do provide discounted rates for paying several months’ rent in advance, but you usually have the option to pay monthly at the regular price. The flexibility of paying monthly gives you the freedom to rent a unit for as long as you need, such as during a home or business renovation, or storing your college kid’s dorm room furnishings during summer break.

Without a long-term lease, you can cancel your rental when you no longer need storage after giving a 30-day notice. If you do find a facility that only offers long-term leases, keep looking, you’ll find others that don’t.

Storage Units Are Dirty

You may also hesitate to rent a storage unit because you’ve heard they’re dirty. If you visit a storage facility and the spaces are dirty, go somewhere else. Most self-storage companies pride themselves on providing a clean, well-maintained facility. These companies diligently clean each unit after a tenant moves out to ensure the next tenant has an immaculate space to store their belongings. Before renting a unit, always request a tour of the facilities and space you’ll be renting to ensure the staff promotes cleanliness.

Expensive Self-Storage Myths

Many people avoid renting a self-storage unit because they’ve heard they’re costly. It does cost more to rent off-site storage compared to storing your belongings in your own garage or attic, but you’ll find storage facilities with reasonable rates in most areas.

Many public storage companies offer various discounts, including reduced rates for military personnel, students, and members of certain organizations, such as AAA. Keep your monthly storage costs down by choosing the right size unit, or opt for a standard unit instead of pricier climate control if you’re not storing sensitive items.

Ask reputable storage facilities about the affordable options they have for various income levels and any current specials they might have.

You Must Buy Insurance From The Storage Facility

Dishonest storage companies may trick you into purchasing insurance coverage through them to protect your belongings or even require it in their rental contract. Reputable storage facilities give you several insurance options, including using your existing homeowner’s, renter’s, or business insurance coverage.

Your policies usually cover professional off-site storage, but often limit coverage to 10% of your policy’s personal property limit. However, your insurance company might let you purchase an endorsement to cover the value of your stored contents. You can also search for an independent third-party company that provides self-storage insurance policies.

Choose A Safe Storage Facility In Clifton, New Jersey

Clifton Rt. 46 Self Storage in Clifton, New Jersey, takes numerous steps to ensure your safety and the security of the belongings you entrust in our care. Tenants use a unique code to enter our fully fenced facility through a controlled access gate. Our digital video surveillance provides additional security, and you’ll never be in the dark in our well-lit facility. 

Contact us at 973-772-1300 to schedule a tour and let our professional staff debunk common self-storage myths you’ve heard, or reserve your storage unit online today.