Picking the best Self-Storage company for your valuables

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - July 28, 2015 - PRLog -- One of the fastest-growing sectors of the commercial real estate industry in our nation is the self-storage industry.  Many stock analysts, in fact,  refer to the industry as “recession proof.” With so many people clearly using storage facilities as a way to manage their personal valuables, their business overflow, or items needed for a hobby for example, Stop & Stor urges consumers to be diligent in choosing a reputable company to store their valuables.

Stop & Stor, with over 25 years in business, operating with 70 employees in 15 locations throughout New York City, offers consumers the following tips when looking to choose a self-storage company.

“First and foremost be as educated as much as possible when looking to enter a relationship with a self-storage company. There are so many types of companies in the market – some small, family owned companies and others that are large franchises. Regardless of their structure, their policies and attitude to your inquiries can help you determine their business philosophy. Their answers to your questions will help you begin a relationship with a company you are comfortable with, “ said Jeff Henick, Chief Operating Officer of Stop & Stor.

Questions to ask…..

How do I know if my valuables will be safe?

Ask the prospective storage company what technology they use to keep your items secure in your unit and in general how they secure their location overall. Cameras, computer coded access systems that are specifically connected to an individual, are the security items you should ask about.

Will you increase my rental contract?

Be educated. Ask storage companies you are looking into how often they will raise your rent. Know beforehand if they have a policy to keep your rent at the same level for a certain period or if they can arbitrarily raise it at any time.

Do you advertise any sign on promotions? If so, can I see the terms in writing?

Make sure you fully digest any sign on promotions before you put your signature to a rental contract. Ask for the terms in writing and take your time absorbing the content.

Am I required to get insurance?

Make sure you are aware of what your homeowner’s policy may already cover with respect to insurance for storage units. Review that before you start visiting storage locations. You may not need  the additional insurance that could be suggested to you when signing a contract with a storage rental company.

What are your late payment fees?

Being late with a payment happens. It is therefore important to shop around and ask about a company’s late fees. You may find that some are more steep than others.

What services do you provide to move my goods to your storage facility?

Ask this question. Some companies may offer rental trucks as part of their service or for a minor fee. This is a helpful service to have to make your moving in easier.

Are your units professionally constructed?

For example, will my items be damaged by leaking water penetrating through concrete that was not sealed properly? Are there any climate-controlled units for special items like furs or valuable art pieces.  When you buy a home you ask if the house’s infrastructure is secure. Do the same for a storage unit since you are often storing the same type as you would in a home or business.

About Stop & Stor:

More than two decades ago, two families (the Henick and Simon families) in the real estate business sensed a need in our community. Twenty-five years later their business acumen and commitment to providing a necessary and affordable self -storage service has enabled them to grow a business with over 70 employees,  15 locations, and all anchored on Staten Island through its corporate offices located in Willowbrook.  Although Stop & Stor’s roots are in Staten Island, it has branched out and now has facilities in all of New York City’s boroughs with the exception of Manhattan. http://www.stopandstor.com/