Allowed or not in Storage?
What Not to Store in a Self Storage Unit
Self storage is useful for household belongings, furniture, business inventory and many other items, but there are some things that should never be placed in a storage unit.
Rules can vary by facility, so always review your rental agreement and ask management if you’re unsure whether a particular item is permitted. Here are some common examples of items that are generally prohibited at self-storage facilities.
People Cannot Live in Storage Units
Storage units are intended for storing belongings—not for living, sleeping or conducting activities that require residential occupancy.
Even if a climate-controlled storage unit has convenient access to electricity or nearby restrooms, tenants and guests may not use a storage unit as a residence or living space.
Animals Cannot Be Kept in Storage Units
Never place a pet or other live animal in a storage unit.
Storage units are not designed or permitted for housing animals. Pets and other animals need appropriate ventilation, temperature, food, water, care and supervision.
Avoid Storing Food and Perishable Items
Food and other perishable items can spoil, produce odors and attract insects and rodents.
Do not store food or other perishable products unless your rental agreement specifically permits the item and it is packaged and stored according to facility requirements.
Do Not Store Live Plants
Live plants require light, water, ventilation and appropriate growing conditions and should not be kept in a storage unit.
Gardening tools, pots and other nonliving gardening equipment may be suitable for storage, provided they comply with your rental agreement and facility rules.
Hazardous, Flammable and Explosive Materials Are Prohibited
Do not store explosives, fireworks, gasoline, propane, certain chemicals or other hazardous, flammable, combustible or toxic materials in a storage unit.
Items containing fuel should be prepared for storage according to facility requirements. If you’re unsure whether a particular chemical, fuel, battery or other material is permitted, ask management before bringing it onto the property.
Firearms and Ammunition
Policies concerning firearms, ammunition and related items can vary by storage facility and rental agreement.
At Texas Maxi-Mini Self Storage, customers should follow the restrictions contained in their rental agreement and contact management with questions before attempting to store firearms, ammunition or related materials.
Illegal or Stolen Property Is Prohibited
Stolen property, illegal goods and contraband may not be stored at the facility.
A self-storage unit cannot be used to store property or materials that are illegal to possess or that violate the terms of the rental agreement.
Cash and Other Irreplaceable Valuables
A storage unit is generally not the appropriate place for cash, important original documents, irreplaceable family items or other exceptionally valuable belongings.
Insurance or tenant-protection coverage may also contain limitations or exclusions for certain types of property. Review your policy or coverage documents before storing valuable belongings.
When in Doubt, Ask Before You Store It
The examples above are general guidelines and are not intended to be a complete list of prohibited items.
Your Texas Maxi-Mini Self Storage rental agreement and facility rules determine what may and may not be stored at the property. If you’re unsure about an item, contact our office before placing it in your storage unit.
