You’re moving house and you need a storage unit in which you can keep some or all your belongings. Most moving companies offer affordable renting solutions as part of their services so you can save time and money by relying on their cost-efficient packing and storage services in London to store your items. However, if you think that you can find a better unit at a lower rate, then you can research a bit to find the best storage company and a facility to fit your specific needs. Either way, it is important to consider the following points before you make your decision and rent a storage unit.
Safety and security
Perhaps the most important factor to consider when searching for a storage facility is its safety. You want to make sure your belongings will be 100 % safe and secure inside the units. Therefore, when you call the storage providers, ask them to answer the following questions:
- What kind of monitoring system do you have? – You want to make sure that a strong security system is in place and that your unit is monitored 24/7
- Do you have smoke alarms installed? – Even though having smoke alarms installed is a standard, it is always good to check, just in case
- What about the sprinklers in case of a fire? – Another standard but it is worth asking
- Do you have security guards? – In addition to video surveillance and alarms, a quality facility has a security guard as another precaution
Access to a facility
The facility might have a strong security but you also want a full access to your belongings, at any time of the day. Therefore, make sure you find out how the access question is handled. If around-the-clock access is important to you, then you want one that will enable that.
The agreement
Before deciding on a storage unit, you should know if you can rent space on a month-to-month basis or how much notice it is required before you leave the unit. Make sure to learn more about how flexible their agreement is. Additionally, ask about insurance and coverage in case that your security is breached or items are damaged.
Check for customer complaints online
Customer reviews can tell you a lot about the reputation of a facility. Check for positive reviews and what former clients had to say, but also see if there are any customer complaints. If there are any major ones, ask the company directly about it. If they are willing to answer all your questions in a polite and friendly way without avoiding tricky ones, you can conclude you are dealing with attentive staff.
Visit the facility
After you choose two or three storage facilities, don’t hesitate to pay them a visit and check their state. If the facility is surrounded by large bushes and overgrown vegetation, how secure is it then? Check if the inside and outside areas are well lit. It is a good sign if the security system is in place and a security fence is intact. Would you feel comfortable leaving your things in their care? If yes, then you have probably found a perfect unit for storing your belongings.