|
The self-storage industry is incredibly flexible about what you can store
and has limited restrictions. As access is so easy, people are increasingly
considering storing goods that they'd never have stored before, such as
seasonal wardrobes that can be changed throughout the year. Although many
self-storage operators use this flexibility as a selling point to market
their services, there are certain restrictions on items that cannot legally
be placed in self-storage. If you have any doubt about the restrictions
on items you wish to store, consult your self-storage manager before you
go ahead.
The most common restrictions include:
Inflammable or combustible materials
The reason for this is obvious - these types of materials will cause very
real danger to the entire facility and personnel, not to mention your
own stored items if there is an accident. The list of restrictions includes
gas, fuel, fireworks etc. You'll generally find, therefore, that you'll
be asked to empty all fuel tanks, even down to your lawnmower, before
placing these items in self-storage.
Animals or animal products
Strange as it may seem, people have in the past attempted to 'store' their
pets in self-storage, as they believe they can access them for feeding
and care as necessary. This is quite obviously cruel and could result
in prosecution. Animal products are also not allowed in self-storage,
as they will attract vermin.
Perishable foodstuffs
If you're looking to store the contents of your house in self-storage
between moves for example, it would seem to make sense just to box up
the contents of your kitchen cupboards and stick them in there too. This
might be fine for cans but there are restrictions on perishable foods,
as they will attract vermin
Illegal or stolen goods
As you might expect no reputable self-storage provider will allow you
to store illegal or stolen goods on their premises.
Firearms
Some self-storage providers will allow you to store firearms on site and
some will refuse. If they do allow you to place firearms in storage, you
will have to follow the facility restrictions about securing the item(s).
Jewellery and valuables
Not all self-storage providers will allow you to store items such as valuable
jewellery, coins and precious metals etc. Many will but you may have to
agree to certain restrictions or need to show proof of specific item insurance.
Fragrances
Some self-storage providers will veto the storage of fragrant items or
anything that will cause a significant odour on site.
Aerosols
Many facilities will not allow the storage of aerosols or pressurized
materials, as there is the possibility that they could burst and cause
accidents.
Hazardous materials
Self-storage facilities will not allow the storage of hazardous, toxic
or chemical materials on site as they can cause very real damage if they
spill or if there is a fire.
Plants
You can't store your plants, or any other living thing, in self-storage,
as they will attract insects and pests.
|
