Avoiding Self-Storage Disasters Before they Begin

Are you getting ready to move into a new home in the Santa Monica area or perhaps simply need a place to store possessions that don’t presently have anywhere else to go? If so, you’re likely looking for a public storage facility that you can depend on. Unfortunately, there are just as many bad locations to choose from as there are good, and picking the wrong one could mean losing your precious belongings. How can you tell the difference? Rely on the following tips to help discern whether the storage facility down the street is worth your business or if you should head somewhere else.

Security Measures

First and foremost, a dependable storage unit will have a noticeable amount of security equipment at practically every place possible. Tall fences with reinforced gates, constant security surveillance, and locks on every door are the bare minimum. If you find that a facility lacks any of these features, or if your unit specifically has a problem remaining completely sealed, seek out another location immediately.

Keeping it Cool (or Warm)

Climate control is another important feature to be on the lookout for. While perhaps not quite as important as security, sensitive items – such as papers or clothing – can become damaged if not kept in a proper environment. Heating and air conditioning for each unit should be independent; otherwise the condition of your possessions may depend entirely on someone else’s whim. Be sure to check with the employees to ensure you know how to adjust the thermostat and when it can be accessed.

Pest Control

The only thing worse than unexpected damage due to climate is damage done by pests. Be they insects, rodents, or something else, the Santa Monica storage facility you rely on should be completely devoid of creatures that could destroy your stored things. If you have even the smallest fear that bugs or mice are chewing holes into your sensitive items, alert an owner immediately. It is difficult to tell how bad an infestation is from one incident, and the sooner the staff knows about the issue the sooner they can figure out how it occurred.