At first glance, it might seem practical to store food items in your unit, especially when dealing with bulk purchases or overflow from your pantry. However, perishable foods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, or frozen goods are strictly prohibited.
Pest Problems: Perishables attract rodents, insects, and other pests that can damage your belongings and those of neighboring units.
Odor Issues: Spoiling food can create unpleasant odors that linger and spread throughout the facility.
Health Hazards: Decaying food can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, posing health risks.
Pro Tip: Stick to canned goods or sealed, non-perishable items if you’re unsure, and always confirm with the facility manager before storing any consumables.
While it might seem harmless to store certain chemicals or materials in a storage unit, anything labeled as flammable, corrosive, or toxic is off-limits.
Gasoline, propane tanks, and oil
Paints, thinners, and solvents
Fertilizers or pesticides
Fire Risk: Flammable substances can cause explosions or fires.
Environmental Concerns: Corrosive materials can leak and contaminate surrounding units or the facility grounds.
Legal Restrictions: Many hazardous items violate safety and environmental regulations.
Pro Tip: Use specialized storage facilities or follow local disposal guidelines for hazardous materials instead of risking fines or accidents.
This may sound obvious, but storage units are not suitable homes for living beings, including plants and pets.
Lack of Light and Airflow: Plants require sunlight and air circulation, which storage units cannot provide.
Animal Welfare: Keeping pets in storage units is cruel, inhumane, and illegal.
Pest Issues: Both plants and animals can introduce pests into the unit, causing widespread problems.
Pro Tip: Consider alternative options like plant-sitting services or pet boarding facilities for your green friends or furry companions.
While this might seem like common sense, storage facilities are often used for questionable purposes, including hiding illegal goods.
Illegally obtained merchandise
Weapons or explosives
Drugs or paraphernalia
Legal Consequences: Storing illegal items can lead to criminal charges, fines, or imprisonment.
Facility Liability: Storage facilities cooperate with law enforcement and may report suspicious activity.
Pro Tip: Ensure you have documentation for any high-value items you store and avoid anything that might raise red flags.
Although not explicitly banned, storing highly valuable or sentimental items without proper insurance is strongly discouraged.
Jewelry or rare collectibles
Family heirlooms
Cash or financial documents
Security Risks: While storage units are secure, they aren’t infallible to theft or natural disasters.
Limited Liability: Most facilities have limited liability policies, meaning they won’t cover losses of high-value items.
Pro Tip: Invest in a comprehensive storage insurance plan to protect your valuables or consider a safety deposit box for items of exceptional value.
Storage units are popular for storing vehicles, but there are specific guidelines regarding the type and condition of vehicles you can keep.
Environmental Hazards: Leaking oil or fluids can damage the facility.
Safety Issues: Non-drivable or derelict vehicles can pose fire risks.
Contractual Violations: Many facilities require vehicles to be registered and insured for liability purposes.
Pro Tip: Ensure your vehicle is cleaned, registered, and has no fluid leaks before storing it in a unit. Some facilities offer specialized spaces for long-term vehicle storage.
Surprisingly, items with strong odors—such as scented candles, cleaning supplies, or even sports gear—are discouraged in storage units.
Odor Transfer: Strong smells can seep into nearby units and affect other renters' belongings.
Health Concerns: Some scents can trigger allergic reactions or respiratory issues in others.
Pro Tip: Double-wrap items with strong odors and use airtight containers if storage is necessary. Better yet, leave them out of the unit altogether.
Q: What happens if I accidentally store a prohibited item?
A: Most storage facilities conduct routine inspections. If prohibited items are found, you’ll be asked to remove them, and you may face penalties or termination of your rental agreement.
Q: Are there any exceptions to these rules?
A: Some facilities may allow restricted items, like propane tanks, if they are empty and certified as safe. Always discuss exceptions with your facility manager.
Q: Can I store weapons in a storage unit?
A: Rules regarding weapons vary by state and facility. Many facilities ban firearms, while others allow them under strict conditions. Always verify the policy beforehand.
Storage units are a versatile solution for decluttering and safeguarding your belongings, but they aren’t catch-all spaces for every item in your home. Understanding what’s prohibited helps ensure the safety of your items, protects the facility, and avoids unnecessary complications. When in doubt, consult your storage facility’s guidelines and prioritize safety and compliance over convenience.
By steering clear of these seven surprising restricted items, you’ll make the most of your storage unit while keeping it secure, functional, and hassle-free.