LifestyleWhat To Do If You Inherit a Storage Unit: A Detailed Guide
Inheriting a Storage Unit: A Guide to Managing the Process
Inheriting a storage unit is an overwhelming and emotional experience. It can happen after the death of a loved one or as part of managing an estate. Sorting through the contents may evoke memories, adding an emotional layer to the task. The legal and logistical challenges can be daunting, especially if you don’t know where to start.
This guide covers the steps to take after inheriting a storage unit and offers tips to help you manage the process with less stress.
Why Someone Might Inherit a Storage Unit
Storage units are typically inherited when a relative or loved one passes away. The unit might be included in an estate, or you could be designated as the executor or administrator responsible for managing the deceased person's belongings. Other times, a storage unit may be passed on to a family member through a will, trust, or another legal mechanism. Inheriting a storage unit often means taking responsibility for items that may include valuable family heirlooms, everyday possessions, and sometimes, unexpected or unwanted items.
What Are the First Steps to Take After Inheriting a Storage Unit?
When you learn you’ve inherited a storage unit, your first step should be to gather essential information and prepare to manage the situation legally and logistically.
Locate Key Documents
Start by locating any documents related to the storage unit, such as the rental agreement, payment records, and either the key or access code for the unit's lock. These documents might be in the deceased person's personal files or provided by the estate attorney, making them accessible when you’re ready to take action.
Contact the Storage Facility
Notify the storage facility that the original renter passed away and that you inherited the unit. Provide any related documentation concerning the estate or inheritance. The facility may have specific procedures for this situation, so ask them to explain the next steps and any requirements they have for inheritors.
Check for Outstanding Payments
Ask the storage facility manager about any outstanding balances on the unit and settle them immediately. If rental fees are overdue, paying them promptly can help you avoid late fees or the risk of having the unit’s contents auctioned due to non-payment.
How Do You Legally Take Ownership of an Inherited Storage Unit?
Inheriting a storage unit requires legally transferring ownership from the original renter to yourself or another authorized individual, especially if the unit was part of a will or trust.
To take legal ownership of the storage unit, you’ll need to provide the facility with certain documents, such as a copy of the death certificate, proof that you are the executor or administrator of the estate, and a copy of the will, if applicable, that specifies the inheritance. Most storage facilities have policies for transferring ownership after a renter’s death, so be prepared to sign a new rental agreement in your name to establish yourself as the responsible party for the unit.
What if the Unit Contains Personal Items or Sensitive Documents?
Once you’ve gained legal access to the storage unit, go through its contents carefully, as it may contain personal or sensitive items. This process may be emotionally challenging, especially if the items trigger memories or include sensitive documents. Prepare yourself to stay calm and focused.
Sorting
As you open the unit, start by sorting items into categories such as personal belongings, valuable possessions, items to donate, and items to discard. This process can be time-consuming, so be patient and work methodically.
Important Documents
Look for important documents, including birth certificates, financial statements, tax records, and legal paperwork. These should be handled carefully, stored securely, and reviewed to determine their relevance to the estate or personal matters.
Sentimental Items
Inherited units may contain sentimental items, such as photographs, letters, or family heirlooms. Take the time to decide what you want to keep and what could be passed on to other family members or close friends of the deceased.
What Options Do You Have If You Don’t Want to Keep the Contents?
If you don’t wish to keep all the contents, consider donating, selling, or discarding items. Donating items can be a meaningful way to let go of possessions while helping others in need. For items you wish to sell, consider using online platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. Alternatively, hiring an estate sale company can simplify the selling process. For items to discard, renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal service can make cleanup easier.
Are There Any Costs Associated with Inheriting a Storage Unit?
Inheriting a storage unit often comes with unexpected costs, so it is important to be prepared.
- Monthly Rental Fees — As the new owner, you’ll be responsible for ongoing monthly rental payments.
- Outstanding Balances — If the previous owner had unpaid fees, you will likely need to settle these before gaining full access to the unit.
- Late Fees or Auction Risk — If payments aren’t made on time, storage facilities often apply late fees and may eventually auction off the unit's contents to recover debt.
Efficiently Managing or Liquidating a Storage Unit’s Contents
Once you’ve taken control of the storage unit, the next step is to efficiently manage the contents, whether you intend to keep, sell, or discard them.
Create a Plan
Plan how you want to handle the unit’s contents. This might involve asking for help from friends or family, renting a truck, and scheduling pickups for donations or junk removal. As you go through items, label boxes or belongings and keep track of what you plan to keep, sell, donate, or discard.
Take the Time Needed
Inheriting a storage unit can feel like a significant responsibility, especially during an emotional time. With careful planning, you can manage the process more effectively and with less stress. By following the steps outlined in this guide—such as contacting the storage facility, handling legal matters, organizing personal items, and making thoughtful decisions about what to keep, discard, or donate—you can navigate the process with greater ease and confidence.
