Springfield Storage Units
Springfield storage units offer solutions for every organization and storage need. With a variety of sizes and features, renters can choose a space that perfectly accommodates their belongings. Some units will even come to you to make a big move much easier.
Storage units are not just places to store excess junk, though they are certainly equipped for that use. Units can be rented for long-term or short-term periods. People moving into smaller homes can bypass the time-consuming and emotional task of getting rid of their things and instead store them as long as necessary. Students at the University of Illinois at Springfield and the city's three other colleges can leave their things in town in secure storage over the summer.
Springfield, Illinois storage units are also useful resources for Springfield businesses. Springfield is the capital of Illinois and the second largest city outside of the Chicago Metropolitan Area, so the large city attracts many businesses. Storage units can be used to keep archives and records, store excess merchandise and supplies and even serve as a distribution warehouse for smaller IL companies and online merchants.
Storage Security
People lock their doors, install motion detectors and set alarms to protect their belongings at home. Springfield storage units should be just as secure. It is important for prospective renters to tour units in person before signing a contract to be sure adequate security measures are in place. Springfield storage units are prices based on square footage and the various features they offer. One feature that can raise rates is advanced security, but there are some basic safety measures that every Springfield facility should have in place, regardless of price.
All facilities should have a strict no smoking policy. This protects every renter's stored belongings from the risk of fire. Units should also have smoke detectors throughout the property. The storage facility should also have restrictions on storing combustible and chemical items for the same reason.
Every facility should have ample lighting. Many unit doors open up into a parking lot or alley. Lighting is both a safety and security safeguard: renters can load and unload at night without fear of being robbed, and people are less likely to fall and be injured. Sufficient lighting also dissuades burglars and vandals from entering the property.
Most Springfield storage units require renters to provide their own locks so access is limited only to the renter's designated key holders. In this way, renters take security into their own hands by purchasing quality locks. Make sure the doors and walls are in good condition, and that the place where the lock will attach is sturdy.
Added security measures beyond these basics may be worth the added cost if you plan to store things of sentimental or monetary value. Companies keeping records in Springfield storage units may also opt for increased security measures to protect confidentiality and sensitive information. Weigh the cost and benefits of these added measures, and do not hesitate to ask the manager plenty of questions about history of break-ins and what you can do to enhance your own security.
Alarm systems and motion sensors can alert managers and guards when an intruder is on the premises. Some facilities have intercom systems and video surveillance to monitor activity in unit blocks. A very secure measure is a foot patrol guard or a live-in manager.
There are also implements to restrict access to intruders. Most Springfield storage units have gate access codes to enter the property. They may also require renters to check in before accessing a unit. Springfield facilities should never issue replacement keys without the renter's consent. All of these measures can help ensure that your belongings are secure and in good condition for the duration of the time you rent a unit.
Insuring Your Belongings
In addition to these security measures, Springfield storage units require renters to have an insurance policy on their stored goods. An IL homeowner's policy might cover stored belongings under domestic property coverage, but check with a Springfield agent to be sure. An additional policy to cover stored items is well worth the cost to protect your things.
Insurance will compensate you if your items are stolen or damaged by a number of perils. Fire, wind damage, explosions and vandalism are just a few of the perils covered by most personal property insurance policies. Central IL experiences occasional tornadoes, so this sort of protection could prove useful some day.
If you don't currently have a policy, some Springfield storage units offer one through a local Illinois insurance provider. This is a convenient option for non-homeowners, but it may also be more expensive to go this route that to procure an independent policy. Compare rates from several companies before settling on a policy to be sure you get the best coverage for the lowest price.