THE REALITY OF A MODERN STORAGE FACILITY
Reality TV shows such as ‘Storage Wars’ and ‘Storage Hunters’, have dramatized and delighted viewers internationally. The shows are based on the concept that when rent is not paid, the contents go on the auction block, with bidders hoping to strike ‘gold’ that they can resell for a profit. Movies such as ‘The Hoarder’ and ‘The Silence of the Lamb’ portrayed dark, dusty old storage sheds as places of horror. It is true that non-payment of rent due can eventually result in the contents going to the highest bidder, but only after a clear legal process is followed. So how accurate are these portrayals today? This article will look at some of the myths and truths about the storage industry and provide a glimpse into Downtown U-Lok Storage as a modern storage facility.
Myth – Storage lockers are full of mostly worthless ‘junk’
Fact – There is a saying that ‘One man’s trash is another man’s treasure’. Most people store items that have sentimental value, memorabilia, important documents, extra furniture, and clothing they want to keep, in order to free up much needed space in their homes. Storage facilities have policies in place to prevent people from storing actual trash in a locker; it’s also a waste of money to store actual ‘junk’. In a challenging economy of rising divorce rates, costs of affordable housing and commercial space, and general cost of living, storage lockers are quickly becoming the solution of choice for today’s leaner start-up entrepreneurs, homeowners and renters living in smaller or shared spaces and businesses looking for more cost-effective use of space. This is because storage lockers provide more flexibility with month to month contracts, cheaper rents, and the customer’s ability to upsize or downsize as needed.
Myth – Storage facilities are dirty, dark, sketchy garage-type places home to rats and bugs
Fact – Today’s modern storage facilities are attractive, well-maintained, security conscious properties. In a competitive environment, a metal and concrete facility built to earthquake standards, with fire sprinklers, clean lockers, brightly lit hallways with lighting on the entire floor (not motion detection lights), a security control system and staff always available to serve customers during ALL open hours, are key to winning and keeping happy customers. Regular pest control maintenance program records should be readily available when requested.
Myth – Storage facilities are useful ONLY when you have too much ‘stuff’
Fact – It’s true that some people use a storage locker as temporary ‘holding places’ while their lives are in transition (for example divorce, retirement, renos, travel, downsizing, moving), however, most people use a storage locker for longer term reasons that make their lives more manageable. The advantages of off-site seasonal storage for clothing, sports equipment, patio furniture and summer/winter tires, are significant because it creates more space in your life and gives you peace of mind that your items are in a safe place . In the case of businesses, storing seasonal equipment, furniture and inventory is more cost effective than leasing more commercial space and creates a more comfortable environment for patrons and staff.
Myth – A storage locker must be in a climate-controlled facility
Fact –
There is a difference between the terms: Climate Control and Temperature Control.
In our mild West Coast climate, Temperature Control is better if your storage locker is completely inside the building because the temperature and humidity in the building are already controlled plus there is no extra cost. However, Climate Control and its additional cost is advised if your storage locker is located so that it has direct, drive-up outside access, or is an outside storage unit, it is important to remember that your contents are at greater risk of damage (mould/mildew, condensation), because the exterior storage locker is in direct contact with the outdoor conditions. If smaller items, valuables and temperature susceptible items are being stored, inside storage is always better. It’s best to ask yourself, do you really need climate control and the extra cost? How much protection do you need for your items to be stored?
Hopefully, this article helps you look at storage facilities in a slightly different light. If you have any questions about storage facilities or would like to rent a locker, give us a call!
