Dew Storage Center, LLC

Before you sign a contract with a self-storage facility, it is vital that you read it thoroughly and understand its contents.  You will need to be fully knowledgeable with the terms and conditions of the contract before signing.

Ask the self-storage company if they can give you a sample of their contract before you sign with them.  That way you can take some time at home to read it over more thoroughly.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can go over them with the self-storage facility before it is time to actually sign the contract. There are several key points covered in most self-storage contracts, and there are certain items that you should concentrate on.

• Make sure that you understand the payment terms and due dates set forth on the contract.  Most storage unit facilities give a grace period before charging any late fees.  Make sure that you understand the penalties and fees for late payments, non-payment, and/or returned check fees.

• Look at the self-storage contract to see what happens if you miss or are late on a rental payment.  According to Montana State Laws governing the storage of personal property, the storage unit facility has the right to auction your belongings after so many days of non-payment.  Be sure that you understand what those terms and conditions are before signing.

• As you read the contract, clarify what the policies and conditions are for the refund of your deposit.  Find out what type of a notice and time considerations you have to give when canceling your self-storage rental contract.  Since most self storage facility leases are on a month-to-month basis, most do not offer any pro-rated rent refund if you terminate your contract in the middle of the month regardless of the date you moved in.

• Ask the facility what their company policy is in regards to employee access to your self-storage rental unit. Your belongings should be safe from intrusions unless there is justifiable cause to enter your storage unit without your permission.

• You should include a complete inventory of the items that you are storing with your signed contract. You should keep a copy for your records in a safe, fireproof container at another location away from the storage units.  Make sure that the self-storage facility signs and dates both copies of your inventory lists.  If you add items to your storage unit or take things out, be sure to make a new list and have the storage facility sign and date the new lists and destroy the old ones.

• Look over the contract for your self-storage unit to see what it says about using the company’s equipment to move your belongings to and from the unit. Some companies may offer this service for free, but you will want to see if this service is only free for a limited period of time.

• Insurance is a vital aspect of your self-storage contract. Self-storage facilities do not include insurance for your personal belongings being stored.  You will need to provide the storage facility with a copy of your “Renters Insurance” policy.  Renter’s Insurance is available from most insurance companies for as little as $10.00 a month.  If you choose not to have insurance coverage for your belongings, most storage facilities will not be liable for your personal property in the event of theft, fire damage, smoke damage, water damage, or any other natural caused damages.

Whether you store your belongings with Dew Storage Center or not, we want you to be informed and know the terms and conditions of any storage unit contract before you sign.

For more information or if you have any questions at all please feel free to contact us at: info@dewstoragecenter.com