The 10 Most Important Questions to Consider before booking a Self Storage Unit in Calgary

Life happens and storage can play an instrumental part at different times in your life.  Whether you are in a time of transition because you are renovating, downsizing or moving, or perhaps you have found the perfect location to call home near downtown Calgary but the storage space is not enough, self storage can be vital.   

A conveneniently located self storage unit can be THE solution to your lack of space.

Asking the right questions

Before you do anything, you should take a look at the storage facilities located near you because your time is valuable and you don’t want to spend time driving to a far away location.

When it comes to self storage facilities, you can judge it by its website.  A professional website often means a professionally managed business.  You can get helpful information from a well-designed and functional website such as: unit prices/sizes, amenities, and access hours, just to name a few. A high-quality, sophisticated website, packed full of valuable information, is the first indication that the property is a well-operated, professional facility. A comprehensive site should also have an FAQ page with answers to many of your questions.

After you look at the websites, call or visit some facilities near you and ask the following questions.

How Do You Keep Your Facility Secure?

Storage facilities should be equipped with state-of-the-art features like 24-hour digital video monitoring, secured gate of overhead door access, interior and exterior lighting and generally be well maintained.  A well managed facility should have proper fire safety, bright lighting, and managers should be actively monitoring the system and doing regular walk arounds.

More advanced features may include individually alarmed “smart” units and Bluetooth enabled smartphone entry that allows customer entry using only a smartphone. These are convenient high-tech additions to a facility and can bring you peace of mind. 

What Are Access Hours?

Access hours vary by location but are typically from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. However, there are facilities that offer 24/7 access which means you can access your unit when is convenient for you.

What Range of Unit Sizes Do You Have Available?

Think about what you need to store and a good storage consultant will help Finding the right size for you. Do you need residential storage or do you need business storage?  Do you need extra high ceilings or extra wide hallways?  You can find most of this information on the facility’s website, but a team member should be happy to answer these questions.

Do You Offer Climate-Controlled Storage?

If you have belongings that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations or you live in an area that is subject to seasonal extremes in temperatures, you’ll want to protect these items in a climate-controlled unit.

Do You Have Restrictions on What I Can Store?

A well-managed storage facility will not allow dangerous goods to be stored for the safety and security of all its customers and staff.  In this case, you are looking for a facility that is clear about the items it restricts.   

Can I Tour the Property and meet the staff?

If it provides you the necessary comfort to make a decision, you should request to tour the facility before you make a decision. The tour should give you an idea of the level of customer service, an impression of the property, and a visual feel for the size of unit that you need.

Do I Need Insurance on My Belongings?

Typically, a reputable facility requires documented proof of insurance before a booking can be made for a storage unit. Some storage facilities offer insurance through tenant insurance companies to make it as easy and convenient as possible.  You will want to have the peace of mind that items are insured in the event of an unforeseen circumstance.

How Do I Contact Staff if I Need Assistance?

Staff that is helpful and present during office hours can make a big different.  There are several facilities that have office hours 7 days a week for answering questions and can assist you with getting rental trucks and moving supplies organized.

How Do You Handle Pest Control?

Rodents and insects can cause permanent damage to your possessions. You should know how often the units are treated for pest control.

Do You Offer Online Account Management?

Online account management offering bill pay and autopay options is so much more convenient that having to write a check every month. A well managed storage facility will encourage you to sign up for autopay to avoid incurring late fees and lockouts.

Go with your gut feel

Most trustworthy self storage facilities will be happy to answer any questions that you may have prior to booking a  storage unit that is conveniently located as well as giving you a tour of the property. They will also be happy to guide you through the website so that you can find answers to all of your questions at your convenience. If they aren’t accommodating or you feel uncomfortable, move on to another facility.

Finding the right facility that gives you the peace of mind your items are safe and secure and conveniently accessible on your schedule is very important.  Another very important factor is that the facility is in the right location and has the right unit for your residential or business storage needs.  Once you’ve gone to the trouble of moving your items into storage, you’re not going to want to move them a second time.