Storage 101: The 5 Kinds of Self Storage

No, you can't live in a storage unit. This is probably the most common rule, and for a good reason. Self-storage is a great way to store your belongings and essential moving supplies when you don't have the space. It is not meant for human habitation. That's just one of the many items prohibited by most self-storage providers.While each facility has its own list of prohibited items to protect its clients' safety and security, some general rules apply to all. Hence, when selecting a facility, it is crucial to be aware of the list of commonly prohibited items, which may be a deal breaker for some people.This article will discuss commonly prohibited and limited things at a storage facility.Why You Can't Live in a Storage UnitSome people think they can live in a storage unit, but this is not the case. You cannot live in one mainly because they are not designed for residential purposes. There is no running water, no kitchen, and no bathroom. While some people may try to make it work, it is not ideal.These facilities are typically designed for long and short-term storage, meaning people will store their belongings for a while. Such an environment is not conducive for living, as you need a place where you can stay with acceptable living conditions.Additionally, these facilities are often closed off from the public, meaning that you would not have access to the same amenities that you would if you were living in a traditional apartment complex, home, or other legal housing option.You can't live in a storage unit. Same with your petsMany self-storage providers do not allow pets, and those that do allow pets have restrictions on the size and type of pet that can be stored.Pets are prohibited for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is that pets can damage property. They can scratch or bite the furniture, walls, and doors in the storage unit.Pets can also track in mud and dirt, damaging the storage unit's flooring. Some facilities also have rules against leaving food out and attracting pests like rats and cockroaches.Some facilities are in shared residential areas, and landlords do not want tenants with pets because they may cause noise or odor issues.Things to Avoid for Self StorageBelow are some items people mistakenly believe they can store in a self-storage unit. While some places, including South Rock, allow for the storage of some of these items, there may be restrictions.Hazardous MaterialsSelf-storage providers prohibit dangerous materials to protect their customers, employees, and the general public. Self-storage units are not designed to store hazardous materials like gasoline, oil, or pesticides. They are a closed environment, which can be dangerous if hazardous materials are present. For example, if a fire started in a storage unit with hazardous materials, the smoke from the fire could be toxic, and everyone in the vicinity could be harmed.Many facilities are located near residential neighborhoods, so it is essential to keep any potential dangers away from these areas.ChemicalsSome types of chemicals can damage the contents of a storage unit, and in some cases, it isn't even possible to store them. This includes bleach, gasoline, and other flammable or poisonous liquids.Chemicals are prohibited because they can corrode and damage the property stored in the facility.Chemicals can also be harmful to people and cause respiratory problems. To protect the safety of their tenants, facilities prohibit the storage of many chemicals.PerishablesSelf-storage is not the best place to store perishable items like food, beverages, and flowers. These items can become spoiled in a very short time, and the unit may never be able to be rented out again.There are a few reasons why most facilities prohibit perishables. The first reason is that it's challenging to keep track of what's in each unit when food items are present.The second reason is that food can attract insects and rodents and infest the entire facility. Many facilities have rules against storing perishable and unpackaged food to keep their units clean and pest-free.Batteries and Electrical ItemsIf you're looking for a safe place to store your belongings, a non-climate-controlled facility is not the place for batteries or electrical items. Some facilities don't allow these items due to their fire hazards. Not only could a battery start a fire, but it can also release harmful fumes that can be dangerous to both you and the other tenants in the facility.Battery-operated devices like video game systems, computers, tablets, and cell phones can also create a fire hazard. If one of these items were to malfunction or become damaged, it could quickly start a fire. Because of this fire hazard, many electronics and battery-operated devices should be stored in climate-controlled units, no matter their size.AppliancesSome units may allow the storage of appliances such as stoves, microwaves, and refrigerators. However, all appliances must be checked with the facility to ensure they are safe to store.In general, most facilities have restrictions or rules on appliances because they can create a fire hazard. Some appliances contain oil or gas that can easily ignite, leading to a dangerous fire.Many appliances take up a lot of space and can be challenging to move, which can cause problems for other tenants in the storage facility.Some appliances can also damage the property in the storage unit. Aside from cases where appliances have caused fires in these facilities, there is also the potential for water damage if a refrigerator leaks or a washing machine overflows.Illegal Weapons and SubstancesThe reasoning behind this rule is simple: self-storage businesses are a public place, and as such, illegal weapons and drugs cannot be stored on their property. In addition, by prohibiting these items, the facilities can help protect their customers and employees from potential harm.While it may be inconvenient to leave illegal weapons or substances at home, it is essential to remember that the safety of everyone involved is at stake. So if you're looking for somewhere to store your belongings, make sure you check the list of prohibited items first.Types of Self-Storage UnitsThere are many different types to choose from. You can rent storage space by the month or year, and there are many different sizes of units to choose from. The most common type is a traditional self-storage unit, a room or garage-sized unit you can rent by the month.These units are typically climate controlled, meaning they are kept at a steady temperature and humidity level to protect your belongings.Other popular types include:Vehicle StorageVehicle storage can be a great solution when you need to free up your garage or driveway space. Self-storage facilities offer indoor and outdoor parking spaces perfect for storing cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and other vehicles. You can typically rent a space by the month or year, and many facilities offer discounts for longer-term rentals.When choosing a self-storage facility for vehicle storage, be sure to ask about security features like locked gates and security cameras. You'll also want to ensure the facility is well-lit and has easy access so you can get to your car when needed. If you're looking for a climate-controlled environment, be sure to ask about the temperature and humidity levels in the facility's parking spaces.Vehicle storage can be a great way to keep your car safe and secure while freeing up space in your home or garage.Climate-controlled storage unitsThese units may be smaller than some of the larger traditional self-storage units available, but they offer all the benefits of climate control. They're perfect for storing documents, furniture, or any other items that need to be kept in a controlled environment.Final ThoughtsWhile storage units can be a convenient and affordable option for short-term storage, they are not suitable for long-term living. The lack of privacy, space, and amenities can make living in a storage unit uncomfortable and impractical. If you are looking for a place to live, please consider other options.Self-storage is a great way to store your belongings, but make sure to check with your local company to see what is and is not allowed. Contact South Rock Storage today. We are an award-winning self-storage facility in Wichita, KS! We have been in business since 2006 and have an excellent reputation for providing affordable, secure storage.We offer storage units as well as expert storage solutions for the entire area. Our clean, safe, and secure facility offers a variety of storage unit sizes to accommodate your needs.

Self-storage is a great way to store your belongings when you don't have enough space in your home. While it can be expensive, there are ways to get the best deal on self-storage in Wichita, Kansas. One way is to take advantage of self-storage military discounts. They are available at many storage facilities, so be sure to ask about them when you're shopping around. Here are five tips for getting the best deal on self-storage in Wichita, Kansas: How to Get the Best Deal on Self-Storage 1. Compare prices and features of different self-storage facilities When looking for self-storage, it's essential to do your research and compare prices and features. This will help you find the best deal possible and get exactly what you need from your self-storage facility. To get quotes from multiple facilities, start by reaching out to a few different places in your area. Some self-storage providers may offer discounts or special promotions, so ask about any available deals. Not all self-storage facilities post their rates online, so it's always best to call and ask for a quote if you can't find the information you're looking for online. Look no further than South Rock Storage for affordable self-storage in Wichita, Kansas. We are conveniently located at 8282 East Oak Knoll St., and with our reasonable rates and military discounts, we're an excellent choice for military members. So if you're looking for reliable storage at an unbeatable price, call us at 316-618-8282 and get a quote today! 2. Inquire about military discounts Self-storage discounts for military members are a great way to save on storage rental costs. Most self-storage facilities in Wichita, KS, offer a discount to military personnel, so it's definitely worth asking when shopping for a self-storage unit. McConnell Air Force Base is up the road from South Rock Storage, so call or visit our facility to inquire about our latest military discounts. Self-storage military discounts can range from a percentage of the rental rate to a waived security deposit, so be sure to ask about the details when speaking with a self-storage facility representative. With the money you save with a self-storage military discount, you'll be able to put it towards other important things, like groceries or your monthly car payment. So don't forget to inquire about self-storage military discounts the next time you're looking for a place to store your belongings! 3. Look for coupons and deals Looking for the best deal on self-storage can sometimes be a challenge. After all, there are so many options, and it can feel overwhelming trying to sort through them all. But the good news is that there are many ways to find coupons and deals on self-storage. For one thing, you can often find coupons or discounts online through self-storage facilities or websites that specialize in listing deals and coupons for a wide range of products and services. You can also look for offers in your local newspaper or other print publications. By shopping around and keeping an eye out for special discounts, you can easily find a suitable self-storage facility at a price that fits your budget. 4. Ask about special promotions Many self-storage facilities offer special promotions from time to time. If you're looking to save money, be sure to ask about any special promotions that may be going on. You may be able to get a discount for signing up for a more extended rental period or for paying in advance. Some facilities also offer discounts for referrals, so if you know someone looking for storage, be sure to mention it. By taking advantage of special promotions, you can often get a great deal on the storage you need. 5. Pack your belongings carefully to avoid damage and maximize space When you're packing your belongings for storage, it's essential to take a few extra minutes to pack them carefully. This will help avoid damage and make the most of the space in your storage unit. Start by wrapping delicate items in bubble wrap or padding them with soft fabric. Then, use storage bins and boxes to group items and make the most of the space. Fill any empty spaces with crumpled-up newspaper or fabric to help prevent damage. And be sure to label everything so you can find it easily when you need it. With extra care, you can avoid damage and make the most of your storage unit. Final Thoughts When it comes to storing your belongings, self-storage is a great option. By providing you with flexible storage space at an affordable price, self-storage can help keep your items safe and secure without wasting valuable space in your home. Follow these tips to get the best deal on self-storage units in Wichita, KS. First, when it comes to self-storage deals, research is critical. Look for providers that offer self-storage military discounts or other special promotions, and be sure to ask about any available seasonal or time-limited offers. Second, determine exactly how much storage space you require before choosing a self-storage unit. This will help ensure that you don't pay for more space than you need and also allow you to find a unit that perfectly fits your needs. Finally, when choosing a self-storage facility in Wichita, KS, look for a company like South Rock Storage. With state-of-the-art security features and convenient location options, South Rock Storage can help make storing your belongings easy and hassle-free. We offer superior customer service and a wide range of unit sizes and amenities. So why wait? Contact South Rock Storage today to learn more about our unbeatable self-storage deals in Wichita, KS.