Top 7 Tips for Water Damage Prevention in Self-Storage

Water damage is a serious threat to belongings in a storage unit. From leaky roofs to unexpected floods, moisture can damage your furniture, electronics, and precious keepsakes. While some storage facilities offer self-storage insurance for the physical structure, it’s important to remember that it’s the tenant’s responsibility to insure the items stored inside.

The good news is there’s a lot you can do to prevent water damage and keep your belongings safe and dry. Here are 7 top tips to avoid water damage in self-storage:

Invest in Self-Storage Insurance

Self-storage units often come with some security, but this doesn’t usually include insurance for your items if water damage occurs. That’s why getting self-storage insurance is essential. It’s your main protection against losing money if your things get damaged by water due to leaks, floods, or other accidents like sprinkler failures.

Make sure you have a good insurance policy that covers water damage. However, be aware that some insurance might not cover flooding specifically. It’s important to read your policy carefully to know exactly what is and isn’t covered. Having the right insurance can save you a lot of trouble and expense if something unexpected happens.

Lift Your Items Off the Ground

One of the easiest and most effective ways to protect against water damage is to keep your belongings elevated. Use pallets, shelves, or tables to lift your items off the floor. This helps protect them from any water that might seep into the unit. Be careful not to stack your boxes too high. Putting too much weight on lower boxes can make the whole stack unstable.

A good rule is to keep your stacks to about three or four boxes high to avoid putting too much pressure on the boxes at the bottom. This simple step can make a big difference in keeping your stored items dry and safe.

Choose the Right Containers for Storage

To fight off moisture from humidity or bad weather, it’s smart to use airtight plastic containers. These types of containers are much better at keeping water out than cardboard boxes. They’re especially good for protecting items that could be ruined by moisture. 

If you have fragile or very important items, you can add an extra layer of protection by putting them in airtight plastic bags before placing them in the containers. This way, you ensure they stay dry and safe, no matter what the conditions are outside.

Regularly Inspect Your Unit

It’s important to visit and check your storage unit regularly. Look for any signs of water damage, such as leaks, dampness, or a musty smell. Finding these problems early can help you protect your belongings. If you notice any issues, tell the facility management right away so they can fix the problem. This will help keep your items safe and in good condition.

Choose Your Storage Facility Wisely

When picking a storage facility, take the time to really look around before you agree to rent a space. Choose places that are clean and well-kept. This shows that the people who run the facility care about it. Pay attention to how they handle things like roofing and plumbing because these are important for preventing water damage. 

A good-looking facility on the outside often means they are also careful about the inside. This can keep your items safe from water damage and other problems.

Use Desiccants to Absorb Moisture

To help keep your storage unit dry and protect against humidity, consider using desiccants. Silica gel packets are a great choice because they can soak up moisture from the air. They are especially effective when placed inside sealed containers or storage boxes. 

By absorbing excess moisture, these packets help maintain a dry environment inside your storage, reducing the risk of water damage. This is an easy and effective way to protect your valuables, especially in more humid climates or seasons.

Keep Your Facility Secure and Well-Monitored

It’s important to keep your storage facility secure and well-monitored to prevent water damage. A secure facility does more than just prevent theft; it also means there’s regular monitoring and maintenance. This helps catch and fix problems like leaks early before they can cause serious water damage. 

Regular checks and updates to the facility can stop many issues before they start. Follow expert tips and keep your storage facility secure and prevent damage.

Final Words

By following these seven tips, you can greatly lower the chance of water damage affecting your stored belongings. Taking action early, like getting the right storage insurance, setting up your storage space correctly, and picking a well-maintained facility, will help keep your valuables safe and dry. These proactive steps are key to protecting your items in storage.

Need peace of mind for your stored belongings? Choose our affordable self-storage insurance. Our seamless online process offers instant protection against various damages, including water damage. Get a free quote today and make sure your valuables are protected.