If you’re in the market for a storage facility, it’s essential to take the time to understand what features to look for. It will help you determine which one is the best for your needs.
Security is always critical in choosing a storage facility, so learn about features such as video cameras and alarm systems. Knowing that your possessions are safe will offer you comfort.
Climate-Controlled Units
Climate-controlled storage units are an excellent option for renters in extreme temperatures or high-humidity areas. They provide a comfortable temperature when visiting the unit and protection from pests, moisture damage, and debris.
Climate control also helps protect essential items like antiques, wine, artwork, and expensive furniture. For example, wooden furniture and fabrics can expand, crack, or even warp in extreme temperatures.
Humidity can also be damaging to many items, including electronics and artwork. It can also cause the paper to turn yellow, degrade, and get brittle.
If you’re storing valuable items, choosing a public storage facility Petaluma that offers climate-controlled units is best. It can be a pricier option, but it’s worth it when you’re worried about the temperature in your storage space.
24-Hour Access
24-hour access is essential for many storage users, especially those who run a business. It allows businesses to store inventory and other items that need to be accessed on short notice.
Research is crucial if you’re looking for a storage facility that always allows access. While big-name self-storage companies may advertise this amenity, it’s not always guaranteed that every location has it.
Thankfully, local self-storage companies in your area are much more likely to offer this feature than national storage facilities.
Aside from providing a convenient place to store your belongings, a 24-hour storage facility also helps ensure your items stay safe. Most 24-hour facilities offer gated access, where only facility employees and customers with the proper key codes can enter. These locks can be a great safeguard against theft. In addition, they often have lights installed on the property to help illuminate the entrances and drive aisles for safety.
On-Site Managers
The on-site manager at a public storage facility oversees day-to-day operations. This person answers phone calls, gives tours, explains pricing and options, writes leases, takes payments, cleans units, maintains grounds, pays utilities, tracks surveillance, and markets the business – to name a few of their duties.
They may also hire and train other managers to ensure they do their jobs properly. They are also responsible for the facility’s taxes, overhead costs, and salaries of other employees.
On-site managers who live at the facility often feel ownership and pride in the company. It also allows them to be at the site after hours when they need to handle emergencies or deal with problems that can’t wait until regular business hours are over.
In addition, they can provide greater peace of mind for both tenants and property owners. The manager needs to be available at all times.
Payment Options
Payment options at public storage facilities vary, but most offer online payment systems that allow customers to pay by debit or credit card. They also have renter dashboards that enable customers to track their balances and upcoming due dates, set up automatic payments, and more.
Keeping payments on time can help you avoid late fees and penalties and ensure your storage unit stays active until your move-out date arrives. However, read your contract closely for specific deadlines and payment requirements.
Some of the most common payment methods are credit cards and e-checks, which are easier to process and reduce the risk of fraud. However, credit card payments often have higher processing fees than e-checks.
