What Can’t You Store in Self Storage?
Running out of space at home? Maybe your garage looks like a scene from a hoarder’s handbook, or business stock has taken over the office.
Self storage is the perfect solution, flexible, secure and just around the corner. But before you start packing boxes willy-nilly, you might be wondering, what exactly can’t go in self storage?
You might be surprised. It’s not just about keeping things dry and locked away. Some items are off-limits because they’re unsafe, illegal or likely to cause chaos for everyone else in the facility.
At Louth Self Storage, we make sure your belongings are safe and secure, but we also have rules to protect everyone’s items. Understanding what can’t go in storage is the first step to stress-free organisation.
Why Certain Items Are Restricted in Self Storage
The restrictions aren’t there to ruin your day; they exist for safety, legal and practical reasons. Items that pose safety risks could harm your belongings, other customers’ items or even the storage facility itself.
Hazardous materials like petrol or solvents could ignite, while perishable goods might attract pests or cause mould growth.
On top of that, the law prohibits storing certain things like living creatures or firearms. Ignoring these rules can lead to insurance issues, legal headaches and even termination of your storage agreement.
For a full breakdown of storage dos and don’ts, check out our Self Storage FAQs.
What Can’t You Store in Self Storage?
Here is a list of nine things you cannot store at a self storage facility.
1. Perishable Food Items and Goods
Tempting as it is to shove that extra tin of beans or half-used bag of flour into a storage unit, don’t. Perishable food items and perishable goods spoil, grow mould and attract pests.
Even sealed containers can leak, creating unpleasant odours and potentially contaminating your other belongings.
2. Living Creatures
Pets, insects or any living creatures are not allowed. Storing living creatures is illegal and unsafe. Welfare laws are strict, and trying to sneak a pet into a unit can put both the animal and you in serious trouble.
3. Combustible or Flammable Materials
Petrol, gasoline, paint and other flammable liquids are hazardous materials that increase the risk of fire. They belong in specialised storage, not your average self storage unit.
4. Lithium Batteries
A modern storage headache. Lithium batteries can overheat, catch fire or even explode. Their rising use in everyday gadgets makes it even more important to keep them out of storage units.
5. Toxic Chemicals and Hazardous Substances
This includes asbestos, propane tanks, radioactive or biological materials, and other toxic chemicals. Businesses dealing with or in these items need to be especially cautious; learn more about storing safely on our business storage units in Lincolnshire page.
6. Illegal Substances or Unsafe Goods
Drugs, counterfeit products or unlicensed alcohol are strictly prohibited. Not only do they carry legal consequences, but they also put other customers at risk.
7. Wet Items and Things That Emit Odours
Damp items encourage mould and bacteria, while strong-smelling belongings can attract pests. Neither is ideal for a clean, safe storage environment.
8. Firearms, Weapons, Explosives or Ammunition
UK law forbids storing firearms, weapons, explosives or ammunition in self storage units. Period.
9. Cash, Deeds and Securities
For valuables like cash, deeds or securities, a bank or safe deposit box is far safer than a storage unit.
What Happens If You Store Restricted Items?
Ignoring the rules isn’t just risky; it has consequences. You could be denied access, void your insurance or have your storage agreement terminated.
Restricted items also jeopardise safety for other customers and could cause serious damage. For more information, visit our page on personal self storage in Louth.
When in Doubt, Ask Your Storage Provider
If you’re unsure whether something can be stored, just ask. Our staff is ready to advise on what’s safe and legal, helping you keep your items secure and avoid unnecessary headaches.
Don’t Risk It: Keep Your Storage Safe
What can’t you store in self storage? Items that are unsafe, perishable, illegal or likely to damage other people’s belongings. Lithium batteries, wet items, perishable food and toxic chemicals are just a few examples.
At Louth Self Storage, we provide a secure, reliable, and friendly space to store your possessions.
Contact our team today to find the right storage solution for your needs, and keep your belongings safe, dry and worry-free.