{"id":8256,"date":"2021-12-21T12:00:16","date_gmt":"2021-12-21T19:00:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?p=8256"},"modified":"2026-01-06T14:26:29","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T21:26:29","slug":"are-storage-units-safe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/are-storage-units-safe\/","title":{"rendered":"Are Storage Units Safe? 8 Common Self-Storage Hazards (And How Likely They Are to Occur)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

“Are storage units safe?”<\/em> It’s a question that comes to mind when storing our valuables away from home, especially collectibles and sentimental items like family photos<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sure, storing extra furniture, family keepsakes, or seasonal gear in a storage unit can feel like the perfect solution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You’ll have more space. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You won’t have to worry about things piling up at home.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

…But a self-storage unit won’t wash away all your worries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You’ll still have to weigh the everyday risks of self-storage: break-ins, busted pipes, and pests (for example<\/em>) <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But don’t let these pre-storage jitters rule out self-storage completely. You’ll just need to pre-screen your chosen storage facility before signing a rental contract. Unique options, <\/a>such as Neighbor,<\/a> are considered the cheaper, closer, and safer option. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The truth is that most storage facilities <\/strong>can<\/em><\/strong> be safe, but only if both the facility <\/strong>and<\/em><\/strong> the renter do their part.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are the most common storage facility hazards to keep top of mind when screening different self-storage companies in your area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are Storage Units Safe?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here’s a quick overview of some of the most common self-storage facility hazards,<\/strong> along with some tips on preventing damage to personal belongings <\/strong>should one of these situations unfold. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hazard<\/strong><\/td>Risk Level<\/strong><\/td>Repair Cost<\/strong><\/td>What to Watch For<\/strong><\/td>How to Prevent It<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Break-ins<\/strong><\/td>Moderate<\/td>$$$<\/td>No gate, weak locks, & limited cameras<\/td>Use a disc\/cylinder lock, and choose a secure facility<\/td><\/tr>
Water \/ Mold \/ Mildew<\/strong><\/td>Moderate<\/td>$$<\/td>Ground-level units, stains, & musty smells<\/td>Climate control, elevate items, & use plastic bins<\/td><\/tr>
Fire Hazards<\/strong><\/td>Low<\/td>$$$<\/td>No sprinklers, poor wiring, flammable items<\/td>Verify fire systems, store non-flammable items only<\/td><\/tr>
Pests<\/strong><\/td>Moderate<\/td>$–$$<\/td>Droppings, spider webs, and rat traps<\/td>Use sealed bins, and ask the provider about their pest control measures<\/td><\/tr>
Hazardous Leaks<\/strong><\/td>Low<\/td>$$<\/td>Chemical smells, oil stains<\/td>Pick facilities with strict policies<\/td><\/tr>
Staff Negligence<\/strong><\/td>Low to moderate<\/td>$$<\/td>Poor lighting, dirty hallways<\/td>Read reviews, ask about maintenance<\/td><\/tr>
Dust \/ Dirt Buildup<\/strong><\/td>Moderate<\/td>$<\/td>Dirty vents, dusty floors<\/td>Cover items & use breathable wraps<\/td><\/tr>
Weak Security<\/strong><\/td>High<\/td>$$$<\/td>Poor lighting, no camera coverage<\/td>Choose 24\/7 monitored, gated sites<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Hazard‑by‑Hazard Analysis<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here is a more detailed breakdown of all the issues you may encounter when renting a storage space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note that while the risk of some of these issues is low, it is prudent to be aware of them before they become a problem. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How Neighbor is changing storage<\/h2>\r\n <\/header>\r\n
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Transparent monthly savings<\/h3>\r\n

Renters save 30-50% on self storage, on average. No rate hikes.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Keep your items nearby<\/h3>\r\n

Hosts in your neighborhood means that your things are always close by.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Storage made simple<\/h3>\r\n

Don't settle for stone age tech and long contracts. Neighbor makes it easy.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/section>\r\n