It can be easy to view your self-storage unit as an extension of your garage – a place to store items and belongings that you don’t use on a regular basis but still want to keep safe.
However, unlike your garage, you can’t just store anything and everything in your storage unit. There are a number of items that you should never put in self-storage – both from a safety perspective and from a contractual point of view.
Here, we’ve listed out eight key personal valuables and belongings that you might want to think twice about putting in your storage unit.
1. Important Documents
Documents such as passports, birth certificates, and financial records should never be stored in a self-storage unit. These papers are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and humidity, which can cause damage over time.
Instead, consider storing these documents in a safe at home or in a safety deposit box at your bank. This ensures they’re protected and accessible when needed.
2. Jewellery and Precious Metals
Jewellery, gold, and other precious metals are high-value items that should not be left in a self-storage unit. Even with security measures in place, there’s always a risk of theft or loss.
It’s advisable to store these items in a secure home safe or a bank’s safety deposit box, where they are far less vulnerable to theft.
3. Cash
Storing cash in a self-storage unit is highly risky. Not only is cash a prime target for thieves, but it also isn’t covered by typical storage insurance policies.
Keep your cash in a secure bank account, where it’s protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), providing peace of mind and easy access.
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4. Firearms and Ammunition
Firearms and ammunition should never be stored in a self-storage unit due to legal restrictions and safety concerns. Most storage facilities prohibit these items for liability reasons.
Store firearms and ammunition in a secured, licensed storage location that meets legal requirements, ensuring they are safe and compliant with UK laws.
5. Perishable Goods
Perishable goods such as food should not be kept in self-storage. These items can attract pests, spoil, and create unpleasant odours, potentially damaging other belongings in your unit.
If you need to store food items, ensure they are non-perishable and securely sealed, but ideally, keep them at home in a controlled environment.
6. Family Heirlooms and Irreplaceable Keepsakes
Items with high sentimental value, like family heirlooms or irreplaceable keepsakes, should be kept out of self-storage. These items often cannot be replaced if lost or damaged, and the emotional loss can be significant.
Consider keeping these valuables in a climate-controlled environment at home, where you can easily access and protect them.
7. Electronics
Electronics such as computers, televisions, and other gadgets are susceptible to damage from extreme temperatures and humidity. Self-storage units often lack the climate control necessary to protect these sensitive items.
Store electronics in a cool, dry place at home or in a specialised storage facility that offers climate-controlled units.
8. Art and Collectibles
Fine art, antiques, and collectibles should not be stored in standard self-storage units. These items require stable conditions to avoid damage from temperature changes, moisture, and pests.
If you need to store art or collectibles, seek out specialised storage facilities that offer climate control and security features designed to protect valuable items.
While self-storage units are an excellent option for many belongings, certain items are too valuable, fragile, or irreplaceable to be left in these facilities.
Make sure that whatever you do have in storage is covered with the correct self-storage insurance policy.
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