A portable storage unit can be a convenient and affordable option for moving or temporary home storage. These nifty containers have become increasingly popular for a variety of reasons and can really be handy. That said, it is important to familiarize yourself with the legalities surrounding portable storage rental. As with anything you plan to rent, you want to be informed about any and all policies, terms, and agreements. When you are renting a portable storage unit from a company, there may be laws and regulations of which you may not be aware. Here we will take a look at five important legal issues to consider before renting a portable storage unit

1.  Payment and Late Fees

Every contract for a portable storage unit will outline your monthly payment. It will also explain how your payment will be accepted such as cash, check, credit card, or online payments. The contract should include the following information regarding payment:
* The amount of your security deposit and the date it is due

*The exact amount of your monthly payment and the date it is due

*What happens if your payment is late and what late fees you could incur

*Any additional fees that you could get charged such as a lock-out fee or a fee for damage to the unit

It is important to make sure you are well aware of any information regarding payments, late fees, and any other charges prior to signing your contract.

2.Use of Your Unit

Every storage company will have specific rules regarding what customers can and cannot do with their storage unit. The contract will also state what will happen if you do not adhere to these rules. For example, there are guidelines prohibiting customers from storing certain items inside a storage unit such as gasoline, explosives, firearms, perishable food, paint, and flammable chemicals. In addition, most contracts limit the value of items allowed to be stored in the unit.

3. Insurance

You want to check with your storage company to ensure that your belongings are insured while in storage. Your contract should include information about what it insured and whether or not it is the responsibility of the renter to purchase additional insurance. You want to consider insurance in the event of fire, theft, weather, or other damage to your belongings.

4. Check Code and Permit Requirements

Before renting a portable storage unit and having it delivered to your home, you will need to check with local ordinances to see if keeping a storage container on your property is legal. Sometimes cities and neighborhoods have laws and guidelines regarding portable storage units. In some cases, you may need to obtain a permit in order to keep your storage unit on your property.

5. Giving Notice

Most rental contracts are month-to-month, but you could get billed for an additional month if you don’t call and give notice of termination by a certain date. Be sure to make note of timelines when renting a storage unit so you are aware of when you need to give notice. This information should all be covered in your rental agreements.