Short answer
Check five things: access hours, security, cleanliness, how easy it is to load, and the full monthly cost. Distance gets you a short list. These decide which place to rent.
- Access hours. Office hours and access hours can differ. Ask when the gate opens and closes, and whether that is every day. In our listings, 25% of facilities are closed on Sundays.
- Security. Look for a coded gate, cameras that cover the aisles, good lighting at night and a fence that is in one piece.
- Cleanliness. Dirty hallways, droppings or dead bugs near doors are warnings. Renters insurance usually does not cover pest damage.
- Loading. Check for carts, a covered loading area, and elevator size if the unit is upstairs. Drive-up units are easier for heavy furniture.
- Full cost. Ask for rent plus admin fee, lock, insurance and tax, and when the rate will go up.
Read recent reviews too. In our listings, 84% of facilities rate 4.5 stars or higher, so a rating below 4 stands out. Read the one and two star reviews for patterns like break-ins, surprise fees or a manager who does not return calls.
If you can, visit before you sign. Ten minutes at the property tells you more than any listing. Start with the finder to build your short list.