Despite being a paying customer, many facilities have warehouse storage restrictions: what you can and can't store is determined by rules meant mostly to keep everyone safe. What are the restrictions?
Why impose restrictions?
Storage centres must impose a number of warehouse storage restrictions: what you can and can't store is a function of keeping you and your belongings out of harm's way. Law enforcement restricts some contents (contraband), while other restrictions are in place to reduce fire hazards or for safety and hygiene purposes.
Not to worry: you can still always store your furniture, bike, lawnmower, patio set, motorcycle, clothes and more.
Usually it’s just a matter of common sense and mutual respect for the other warehouse customers. Nonetheless, here are some items that may be prohibited:
- Alcohol or any other forms of liquid
- Drugs and illegal goods
- Firearms
- Explosive substances, such as fireworks, ammunition and gas cylinders
- Gasoline, batteries, oil, grease, fuel or other flammable substances (gas must be completely drained from mowers and motorcycles, for example.)
- Plants, firewood and other forms of flora
- Food and perishables
- Odorous materials
- Animal carcasses or live animals
- Chemicals such as paint and cleaning solvents
- Tires
- Garbage and refuse
Note that it is also forbidden to smoke and drink alcohol in a warehouse. What's more, you are also forbidden from using the space as a workshop or for any other business or recreation activity. Warehouse space is meant only to store your belongings—not have a party.
Usually a detailed list of rules and restrictions are indicated on the lease. Generally speaking, all storage facilities are subject to the same restrictions for the very same reasons: security and to stay on the right side of the law.
Other rules to considerregardingaccessibility
- Only warehouse tenants are permitted access
Anyone else wishing to access the storage unit on your behalf must first have permission from the company. You’ll have to contact the warehouse to make arrangements and get authorization.
- Access times may be restricted
Although many storage centres provide free access to storage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, others only allow it during the daytime and evening (but not at night). Similarly, others warehouses are only accessible during office hours and weekends. If this is the case, you probably won’t be permitted access on statutory holidays either.
It is important to keep all this in mind before choosing a storage centre and signing a lease. You must be clear on all the restrictions and find out if the types of things you want to store are permitted. Lastly, you need to know the opening hours, access conditions, and if they're convenient for you.
