- Jun 01 2024
- Self Storage Tips
When storing items in a seasonal storage unit, it is important to understand what cannot be stored. This is due to multiple reasons: storage safety, self-storage regulations, general upkeep of the facility, and personal privacy and safety. In this article, we break down what not to store in a storage unit, along with why these items cannot be stored and the risks you run if you do decide to store them. Climate-controlled storage is an excellent way to safely store items, but these items cannot or should not be stored in one of the facilities.
If you are looking to book a climate-controlled storage unit in the Sioux City area, contact us at Olympic Storage to learn more!
Hazardous Materials
Below are some hazardous materials that you can’t store in a storage unit. This is due to the public safety and safety of the tenants of the surrounding storage units. Here are some of the materials you cannot store:
- Gasolene
- Propane
- Oil
- Grease
- Chemicals
- Cleaners
- Aerosols
- Paints
- Corrosive Acids
Flammable Items
Along with this are flammable items, such as some listed above. Items that pose a great or significant fire risk should never be stored in a self-storage facility.
Perishable Items
Items such as foods or items that will spoil over time should not be stored in a storage unit. Keeping fresh fruits, vegetables, and other perishable goods in a storage facility will lead to spoiling and creating a health hazard. Furthermore, rodents and pests will become attracted to the facility, causing damage to your belongings and the belongings of other tenants.
Living Things
Pets and other living things are not permitted in self-storage units. This is inhumane and dangerous, and you can be held criminally liable for storing this inside of a storage unit. Under no circumstances would this ever be allowed.
Illegal Items
Illegal items and contraband are permitted from self storage facilities. If it is illegal to possess on you or in your home, it is just as legal to store it in self-storage. Furthermore, the owner of the facility could find you liable or pursue legal action against you if they see you have caused risk and damage to their business.
Weapons and Ammunition
Storing weapons such as a gun and ammunition poses a great safety risk and is not allowed. Ammunition needs to be stored in specific containers and is not allowed to be stored in a communal setting such as a storage facility. Due to the dangerous risk of a weapon, these items are also prohibited from self-storage.
Scented Or Wet Items
Scented items can cause your items and other client’s items to become scented as well. This can ruin stored items and have an impact on the facility. Due to the relative lack of light in storage, storing wet items will encourage mold growth, causing health risks and damage to your property and the property of others.
High-Value Items
While storage facilities are often very secure, there is always the risk of theft. We do not suggest storing high-value items in shared self-storage due to this risk and the inherent value of the item you own.
Uninsured and Irreplaceable Items/Sensitive Documents
Along with high-value items are items that are important to you or cannot be replaced. If you have items you do not want to risk losing, then avoiding the self-storage unit is recommended to guard against the worst-case scenario. The same goes for sensitive documents in which losing them can put personal privacy at risk.
Vehicles Not In Running Order
Vehicles that cannot be removed from the facility if needed or broken down should not be stored in self-storage. They can be dangerous, and should be able to be removed if needed with ease.
FAQ’s
Below are some of the most common questions when it comes to what you cannot store in a storage unit.
Can I store flammable items in a temperature-controlled storage unit?
Even in a storage unit with temp controls, you cannot store flammable items in this unit due to the risk they pose to the facility and other users.
Can plants or other vegetation be stored in storage?
Plants and other vegetation should not be stored in storage. They are perishable, can die, and will rot. This will lead to bug and pest infestations, along with certain health hazards. Plants and other forms of vegetation should never be stored in self-storage.
If you are looking to book a climate-controlled storage unit, contact us at Olympic Storage to learn more!
Olympic Self Storage
If you are in need of a self-storage unit, then Olympic Self Storage is the best choice for you. With climate-controlled units and secure storage, we provide storage services in Sioux City perfect for those who need a reliable storage center.
