Signing a storage lease is a commitment. The right questions help you avoid surprises, understand what you're paying for, and make sure you're getting the best deal for your needs.
Here are the essential questions to ask before you sign.
Pricing Questions
1. What's the monthly rent?
Get the exact monthly rate. Is this a promotional rate? What will the rate be after the promotion ends?
2. Are there any setup or admin fees?
Some facilities charge one-time fees. Ask about all fees upfront.
3. Will the rent increase?
How often do rates increase? By how much? Is there a cap on increases?
4. What's included in the rent?
Are utilities included? What about insurance? What's extra?
Contract Questions
5. What's the lease term?
Is it month-to-month? Is there a minimum commitment? What's the notice required to move out?
6. Can I move to a different unit size?
If you need more or less space, can you upgrade or downgrade? Is there a fee?
7. What happens if I need to move out early?
Are there penalties? What's the process?
Access Questions
8. What are the access hours?
Is it 24/7? Are there restrictions? What about holidays?
9. How do I get access?
Do I get a gate code? A key? How does access work?
10. Is there drive-up access?
Can I drive right up to my unit? Is it on the ground floor?
Security Questions
11. What security measures are in place?
Is there CCTV? Gated access? On-site management? Lighting?
12. What type of lock do I need?
Do they provide locks? Do I need to buy my own? What type is required?
Insurance Questions
13. Is insurance required?
Do I need insurance? Can I use my own, or do I need to buy theirs?
14. What does the insurance cover?
If I buy their insurance, what's covered? What's the deductible?
Facility Questions
15. Is the unit climate-controlled?
If you need climate control, make sure the unit actually has it.
16. What's the unit size?
Get the exact dimensions. Is it the size you need?
17. Is there parking available?
Where can you park when accessing your unit? Is there a time limit?
18. Are there any restrictions on what I can store?
Some facilities have restrictions (no vehicles, no hazardous materials, etc.).
Payment Questions
19. How do I pay?
Online? In person? Automatic payment? What payment methods are accepted?
20. What happens if I'm late on payment?
What's the late fee? How long before they take action?
Moving Out Questions
21. What's the move-out process?
How much notice do I need to give? Do I need to clean the unit?
22. Are there move-out fees?
Any cleaning fees? Administrative fees? Get it in writing.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if:
- They won't answer your questions directly
- They pressure you to sign immediately
- Fees aren't clearly explained
- The contract is confusing or unclear
- They won't show you the unit before you sign
- Rates seem too good to be true
Get Everything in Writing
Don't rely on verbal promises. Get everything in writing:
- Monthly rent
- All fees
- Lease terms
- Access hours
- Insurance requirements
- Move-out requirements
The Bottom Line
Asking the right questions helps you avoid surprises and make an informed decision. A reputable storage facility will be happy to answer all your questions and provide clear, transparent information.
At East Side Self Storage, we're transparent about our pricing, terms, and policies. We'll answer all your questions and make sure you understand exactly what you're getting. No surprises, no hidden fees.