Forgetting your items in your self-storage unit after you have vacated is not a wise thing to do. Many storage companies reserve the right to remove and even sell items that are left. HOLD has a set of rules about what happens if you leave items or miss a payment, so it's important to read these first, so you know what you're getting into.
Your storage provider will try and contact you first, before going through the process for dealing with abandoned units. Missed payments can quickly add up, and once your storage is considered abandoned, it could result in your things being sold off to cover the unpaid storage unit rent. Storage facilities will try to work with you, but they’re also running a business and need to free up space for paying customers.
In this article, we’ll break down what happens to items left in a storage unit, including the steps taken by storage companies when payments are missed, how they handle abandoned units, and what you can do to avoid losing your belongings.
Leaving items behind you don't need
So you've cleared out your storage unit, but left some things behind? That's still a problem. Storage units need to be cleaned out properly when you're finished renting them, and this is usually a part of your contract.
Leaving items behind means that the unit hasn't been cleaned properly, and you could end up having to pay the cost of removing the items and cleaning the unit.
The self-storage company will likely contact you first, to make you aware of the situation. Ignoring them will in some cases result in them selling your items. As storage space is still being used, they could also send you a storage fee for the time your items were still kept in storage, and for their removal.
Missing a payment
If for whatever reason you can't keep up with storage costs, and miss a payment, then a few things could happen. Self-storage units which have been abandoned due to missed storage payments aren't immediately emptied. Most facilities will begin by trying to contact you through email, phone calls, or even letters.
Access to your unit is usually restricted until a payment is made. In some cases, they’ll place their own lock on the unit or change the existing one. This is a common first step in what’s known as a “default storage unit,” where you’ve gone beyond the agreed period.
If you’re unable to pay, storage companies have the legal right to hold onto your belongings until the debt is cleared. In extreme cases, the storage facility may start looking for ways to sell off your stuff to recover the costs. This isn’t something they do lightly, but it can be the final option if other solutions don’t work
What's the legal process for abandoned storage units?
When it comes to abandoned storage units, the rules are stricter than what you might see on reality shows like Storage Wars. Storage facilities must follow a clear process.
First, the storage company will try to contact you multiple times to arrange for payment or retrieval of your belongings. This will likely be through writing, with recorded delivery, so that they can be sure you received the letter.
If they can’t reach you and the unit remains unpaid, the facility manager will assign a value to the items. At this point, they may sell anything of value to recover what you owe. Rather than auctions, they’ll sell the items through second-hand shops, antique dealers, or other vendors, though eBay auctions aren't uncommon.
Items that can’t be sold? Unfortunately, they’ll likely be thrown away. It’s a costly and time-consuming process for the storage facility, which is why they’ll try their best to work with you before resorting to such measures.
Any costs that are racked up because of this will be charged to you. Check your lease agreement thoroughly if you are worried you can not pay for a unit. Many storage companies want to work with you and help out as much as they can.
What happens if I can't pay or take my items?
While the storage facility will be reasonable and understanding, they are still running a business. Leaving items behind will still count as you using the unit, and missed payments will result in late fees. Eventually, the storage facility will take steps to dispose of your items. The process is regulated under lien laws, which means they must notify you first, make reasonable efforts to contact you and assess the value of your goods before anything is sold
Storage unit auctions like on TV aren't actually what happens, your items will likely be sold through sites like eBay or second-hand shops.
Conclusion
If you’ve left items in a storage unit, or are struggling to make payments, don’t panic. Most storage companies prefer to avoid the hassle of disposing of or selling your belongings. Your best bet is to contact the facility and work out a solution before things go too far.
However, if left for too long, and you don't keep up with payments, the self-storage company will reserve the right to sell your belongings to make up for lost business. Never leave items behind, even if you don't want them, as you'll just end up having to pay more fees.
Rent a storage unit with HOLD Self-Storage
Looking for reliable self-storage in the London area? Look no further! Our Kings Cross facility offers flexible plans, from business to personal storage, with top-notch security and competitive pricing. Whether you’re storing for a short period or need long-term solutions, HOLD can help.
Contact us today for a free quote, and let us help you safeguard your belongings without the stress!
Frequently asked questions
What happens if you walk away from a storage unit?
If you abandon a storage unit, you will still be charged for it, as well as late fees, up until the storage unit is emptied. If the storage facility has to empty the unit, you will be charged for this as well.
What if I don't want the stuff in my storage unit?
If you no longer want the belongings in your storage unit, you should remove them. You can do this either by yourself or with a removal company. Anything left behind in a storage unit could result in extra charges to be removed.
What notice do I have to give on my storage unit?
We require one month's notice; unused rent and deposit are refunded upon checkout.
Am I charged weekly, monthly or annually?
We bill monthly, but also take pre-payment for longer stays, which can unlock a discount.
How does storage work at HOLD?
Self-storage works by renting a storage unit or space for a specified period. You can store your belongings in the unit and access them whenever you need to. It's like having your own personal storage space away from home.
