Many new housing developments have been springing up all over Suffolk in the last decade, but while the houses may be more attractively and economically designed and energy efficient they often lack enough storage space.
Families grow and change and if you can’t or don’t want to move to a larger space and you’re not a ruthlessly unsentimental minimalist, most households sooner or later face the problem of “too much stuff”.
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It ranges from heirlooms and souvenirs to household records and documents that you have to keep. It’s all the things you either can’t or don’t want to get rid of, but don’t use on a regular basis.
Renting self storage space can be a very useful and affordable solution and “spare” your spare room or garage from boxes of things that make otherwise usable areas, unusable for original intent.
In brief these are the points you would need to consider when deciding if storage is an option for you -
Location? Most people prefer to store their valuables somewhere close to where they live or work. You may not need to access them often but it helps to be able to get to them quickly and easily when you do.
Access? We all live under time pressures juggling work, family needs and the like. If your possessions were at home, you’d be able to get to them if you needed at a moment when you have spare time, in the evening, at the weekend, even late at night. A unit that gives you 24-hour access therefore to be able to get in whenever you need is a very valid consideration.
Security? Is the location well-lit, properly alarmed, are there CCTV cameras both externally and internally? Within the storage facility you want to be sure your property is stored in a locker or unit that is lockable so that only you have access to the contents.
How much space do you need? Flexible self storage facilities should be able to offer you a range of options, from space for a few boxes to space for a whole house worth of furniture.
How long do you need it for? It may be you only need a short term solution, perhaps to decorate a room. On the other hand you may be moving away for a longer period and need to store for at least 6 months. Check that the facility has a rolling contract, meaning you can continue storing indefinitely until you no longer need the space and you give notice to leave.
Insurance? You should check whether your household contents insurance can be extended to cover items in storage. You can also ask if the storage facility can provide a quote for insurance and then you can compare the costs.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to go and look at the self storage company you’re considering. We always invite people to come and look round as we understand that everybody’s circumstances are different and talking through your options will help us to help you get exactly what you need and the peace of mind of knowing your property’s well cared for.
