Finding Storage Facilities with Electricity

Electricity in storage units is not common. In most cases, it isn’t necessary. Adding electricity in a storage unit is an extra build-out cost that doesn’t always provide value to facility owners. Storage facility operators don’t want to encourage people spending time in their units. Living in a storage unit is illegal, and in some areas, zoning prevents using a storage unit as a place of business. Thus, storage facilities with electricity are rare.

Reasons for Electricity in a Storage Unit

You may find you actually do need storage unit electricity. And you can find storage facilities with electricity if you look hard enough. Here are some reasons why electricity in a storage unit can be a necessity worth paying for in some cases:

• Running a business out of a storage unit requires a storage facility with electricity. If you are crafting product or running a printer or laptop to process orders, electricity in a storage unit is a must.
• If you are using storage for a hobby that requires it, like woodworking or tinkering with an old car, you may need electricity in a storage unit.
• Maintaining property also requires storage unit electricity. Perhaps you have an RV or boat and you need to continuously trickle charge the battery. You may have expensive equipment that requires constant power.
• Some people need temporary access to electricity in a storage unit for cataloging their belongings.

Finding Storage Facilities with Electricity

If you need a storage unit with electricity, you will have to do a little more work finding the right spot. Some areas have zoning that allows electricity in storage units. They may advertise the availability of storage units with electricity, which makes it easier to find them.

If the facility you are considering does not advertise storage units with electricity, you may still be able to get it. Go in person and ask. Tell the facility management about your need. For temporary electricity in a storage unit, they may allow you to run an approved extension cord. If you are storing a boat or RV, the storage unit electricity may already be in place. Running a business from your storage unit most likely will need to fall within specific zoning rules.

You will want to be clear about why you need electricity in a storage unit. You should let the storage facility management know what your usage needs are and when you will be present. The facility wants to be sure you aren’t living there or occupying your storage unit in illegal ways. You may be able to use electricity in a storage unit only during office hours. They will also be concerned about potential risks of fire and other liabilities.

If you do find a storage unit with electricity, you will have to pay extra for the amenity. You will probably have to do extra paperwork and may need to acquire additional liability insurance.

Storage facilities with electricity are not common, however, with a little extra work you can find them. Even if your facility does not advertise electricity in storage units, they may be able to make an exception for the right reasons. It never hurts to ask.