Storing During Your Renovations

Renting a unit to store your things does not have to be a lifetime arrangement or even an arrangement that lasts a year. Many businesses for storing personal possessions constantly play a game of musical units where customers rent spaces for short-term reasons.

If you plan to renovate your home, follow a few tips for storing during your renovations.

Tip #1: How Long Do You Need Storage?
If you asked 10 people to define short-term storage, you would probably get 10 different answers. All that matters is how you define it, whether it is a few weeks or several months. The first item on your to-do list is to determine how long you need a unit. For a renovation project, check with the general contractor in charge of the home improvement project to get an estimate of how long the project should take. Then, ask the manager of the storage business the location’s policy on changing move out dates.

Tip #2: How Much Stuff Do You Plan to Store?
This is a relatively easy question to answer because you should know what parts of your home receive renovations. If it is the living room that is impacted by a home renovation project, then you have to find a space that can safely store all your furniture. Check with the businesses on your shortlist to discover the size options they offer customers. You should also take a tour of a couple of locations to get an up-close look at the different units.

Tip #3: Go with Climate Control
Unlike a standard unit that is susceptible to the whims of Mother Nature, a temperature controlled unit ensures that you protect valuable items such as jewelry and fine porcelain dinnerware. In the previous living room example, a climate control unit protects sensitive wood and metallic furniture from rot and corrosion. Yes, a climate control unit costs more to rent, but the peace of mind knowing your valuables are safe is worth the extra investment.

Tip #4: Make Sure the Contract Accommodates Your Short-Term Needs
Long-term contracts are easy to figure out. You say that you want a space for one year, and the contract reads the same. Short-term contracts can be trickier to create because of the uncertainty of when the renter plans to move out. This is especially true for home renovation projects that represent the poster child for Murphy’s Law: Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. Make sure the contract you sign gives you an out in case something goes awry with the renovation project.

Tip #5: Avoid Packing Daily Essentials
A comprehensive home improvement project can impact multiple rooms, including the kitchen and bathrooms. Avoid the temptation to pack daily essentials like toothbrushes and the coffee maker. You should move the daily essentials to other areas of your home to have quick access when you need to brush your teeth or make a few cups of coffee. Storing during your renovations should help you get through the home improvement project with everything remaining in pristine condition, whether it’s the stuff you leave at home or organize at the storage property.