Local storage units are perfect for storing your items
Concord’s best local storage units can help keep your personal items safe. Renting a storage unit can be a handy and cheap way to store your stuff when you need more room or are moving. But before you sign a deal and move your stuff in, you should know the legal stuff involved in renting a storage unit. Here are some of the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and owners of storage units.
Rights and responsibilities of tenants
As a tenant of a storage unit, you have the right to:
- Get to your unit anytime during the facility’s open hours, or 24/7 if the facility lets you do that. This means you can access your belongings whenever you want, without having to wait for someone else to open the gate or the door for you. You can also choose a facility that is close to your home or work for convenience.
- Lock your unit with your own lock and keep the key or combination. This gives you more control over who can enter your unit and how secure it is. You don’t have to worry about the owner or anyone else having a copy of your key or knowing your code. You can also change your lock or combination anytime you want.
- Insure your property against damage or theft, either through your own policy or one offered by the facility. This protects you from losing money or valuables if something bad happens to your stuff while it’s in storage. You can choose the type and amount of coverage that suits your needs and budget. You can also compare different insurance options and prices before deciding.
- Receive notice from the owner if he plans to sell your property due to non-payment of rent or fees. This gives you a chance to pay what you owe and get your stuff back before it’s gone forever. You can also negotiate with the owner or ask for more time if you’re having financial difficulties. You can also check the laws in your state to see how much notice the owner has to give you and what rights you have as a tenant.
As a tenant of a storage unit, you have the responsibility to:
- Pay your rent on time and in full, or face late fees and possible eviction. This is the most basic and important rule of renting a storage unit. If you don’t pay your rent, you’re breaking the contract and risking losing your stuff. You also have to pay any fees that the facility charges, such as for maintenance, security, or administration. You should always read the contract carefully and understand what you’re paying for and when.
- Inform the owner of any property that has a lien on it or is secured by another person or business. This means that if you’re storing something that belongs to someone else or that you owe money for, you have to tell the owner about it. This way, the owner knows who has a claim on your stuff and can avoid legal problems if he tries to sell it. You should also keep receipts or documents that prove your ownership or payment status of your stuff.
- Abide by the rules of the facility, such as not storing prohibited items (e.g., hazardous materials, firearms, food, etc.). This is for your own safety and the safety of others who use the facility. Some items are dangerous, illegal, or unsuitable for storage because they can cause fire, explosion, contamination, or pest infestation. You should always check with the facility what items are allowed and are not before storing them.
- Do not live or work in your storage unit, as this is illegal and a violation of your lease. This may seem obvious, but some people try to use their storage units as living spaces or offices because they’re cheap and private. However, this is against the law and the terms of your contract. Storage units are not meant for human habitation or business activities. They don’t have proper ventilation, lighting, heating, cooling, plumbing, or electricity. They also pose health and safety risks for you and others.
Responsibilities of owners
As an owner of a local storage facility, you have the responsibility to:
- Provide a safe and secure place for tenants to store their belongings, with locks, video monitoring, in-person surveillance, and security gates or doors. This is your duty as a business owner and a service provider. You have to ensure that your facility is well-maintained, clean, and free of hazards. You also have to prevent unauthorized access, theft, vandalism, or damage to the tenants’ property. You should also have an emergency plan in case of fire, flood, or other disasters.
- Offer fair and transparent pricing, with specials and online discounts if available, and note any pricing variability in the contract. This is to attract and retain customers and avoid complaints or disputes. You should set your prices according to the size and type of units, the location and demand of your facility, and the features and services you offer. You should also clearly communicate your prices and fees to tenants before they sign a contract, and explain any changes or increases that may occur.
- Ensure availability of different sizes and types of units, and inform tenants if there are any changes or issues with their units. This is to meet the needs and preferences of different customers and avoid dissatisfaction or inconvenience. You should have a variety of units that can accommodate different kinds of items, from furniture to vehicles. You should also keep track of your inventory and occupancy rates, and notify tenants if their units are affected by maintenance, renovation, or relocation.
- Respect tenants’ privacy, and only enter their units with their permission or for legal reasons. This is to respect their rights as customers and avoid legal problems or conflicts. You should not enter their units without their consent, unless you have a valid reason, such as checking for safety violations, enforcing your lien rights, or complying with a court order. You should also inform tenants before you enter their units unless it’s an emergency.
Find Concord’s best local storage units
Mr. Storage is locally owned and managed with affordable pricing. We have storage facilities in Concord, Salisbury, Harrisburg, Kannapolis NC, and Midland. Contact us today to reserve your unit.