Ask the Expert

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette storage illustration.
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette storage illustration.

I am preparing to move to another city due to my job and will be temporarily moving from my house to an apartment until I buy a new house. In the interim, I'll need to store some of my possessions in a mini storage unit. What tips can you give me regarding this?

"More and more people are using temporary or additional storage spaces for belongings," explains Gary Stephenson of North Little Rock, regional spokesman for State Farm Insurance. "I would recommend two considerations in this regard. First, talk to your insurer and find out what coverage your homeowners or rental policy may provide if you have items stored off site," Stephenson says. "Not all policies are alike and never make assumptions about your coverage. Visit with your insurer so you know.

"Secondly, inspect the storage unit in terms of security and safety," he advises. "Temperature-controlled units are more expensive, but may be well worth it. You want your items to be in good condition when you retrieve them.

"I would also recommend using a facility that has a video camera installed and security measures in place to protect the property," Stephenson adds. "The old saying 'Better safe than sorry' has real meaning."

From selecting a facility to packing the items to be stored, State Farm Insurance, in an article posted on its online learning center (learningcenter.statefarm.com), recommends researching different options and planning before packing items to be stored.

First and foremost, as Stephenson earlier noted, choose a safe locale. Features to look for include:

• 24/7 security cameras or guards

• Gated entrance

• Keypad access or locks with short arms that are more difficult to cut with bolt cutters

• Backup alarms in case a burglary occurs

• Tour empty units and inquire if they have been inspected for pests, leaks or other problems.

• If the property doesn't appear to be neat, orderly and well-maintained, it's probably best to pass on it.

After the best facility has been selected, it's time to begin packing items to be stored. State Farm notes that well-planned, thoughtful packing is crucial for keeping possessions in easily retrievable and good condition. To that end, the insurance company offers the following tips for smart packing:

• Use bubble wrap to pack fragile items.

• When possible, disassemble furniture to use less space.

• Before storing, treat furniture with polishes or conditioners and cover with a protective cloth such as a sheet.

• Place hanging clothes in a wardrobe box, as storage units can trap moisture and encourage mildew.

• When packing boxes, completely fill them for maximum sturdiness.

• Lift items off the floor by placing them on pallets to protect them from flooding.

• Place the heaviest boxes on the bottom.

• Label all the boxes for ease in later identifying and finding items.

• When filling the unit, remember to leave a center aisle for easier access.

-- Linda S. Haymes

Do you have a decorating or remodeling question? We'll get you an answer from an authority. Send your question to Linda S. Haymes, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, P.O. Box 2221, Little Rock, Ark. 72203 or email:

lhaymes@arkansasonline.com

HomeStyle on 09/13/2014

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