
Navigating the public storage insurance claim process can be overwhelming, but understanding the basics can make a big difference. You can start by reviewing your storage contract, which typically outlines the insurance requirements and coverage options.
The contract may specify that you need to purchase insurance from the storage facility or provide proof of alternative coverage. Make sure to read the fine print to understand what's included and what's not.
If you need to file a claim, start by documenting the damage or loss as soon as possible. Take photos and notes, and report the incident to the storage facility promptly.
What You Need to Know
Before you file a public storage insurance claim, it's essential to understand what's covered under your tenant protection plan. Most plans cover loss or damage due to fire, theft, water damage, mold, and natural disasters.
Items like vermin infestations or damage caused by rodents or insects are also typically covered. However, some items like those that are illegal, dangerous, or perishable are usually excluded from coverage.
It's crucial to review your plan's terms and conditions to ensure your stored items are covered. You can find detailed coverage information on the Storage Shield tenant protection plan website.
Insurance Options
You can consider a few insurance options for your public storage unit. Third-party insurance companies like SafeStor and MiniCo specialize in storage unit insurance and can provide coverage for your expensive items without adding to your claim record.
Renters insurance can also cover items in a storage unit, but coverage is limited to a small percentage of your policy's limits, usually around 10%. This means if you have a policy that covers your personal property up to a maximum of $50,000, you would be insured up to $5,000 for the items in your storage unit.
The cost of self-storage insurance policies varies depending on the coverage amount, but most renters insurance policies cost less than $30 a month. Here's a rough idea of what you can expect to pay:
What Covers
Renters insurance typically covers your belongings in a storage unit, including clothing, furniture, electronics, and appliances, in case of damage from a fire, tornado, or water leak. This coverage usually includes theft and vandalism as well.
However, there are some exceptions and specifications to note. Your insurer may refuse claim payment if the object is not in your home or storage unit because it is being repaired or refurbished. Additionally, items that you usually store in another residence that your renters insurance does not cover may not be included in the storage unit coverage.
Storage unit insurance policies typically cover a wide range of losses, including fire, theft, and extreme weather. Most policies cover damage from fire, explosions, tornados, hurricanes, windstorms, and other extreme weather events. They may also cover theft and vandalism, hail, lightning strikes, and falling objects.
However, some policies may not cover floods, so it's essential to check your policy details. Some policies may also not cover loss or damage caused by unforeseen social upheavals like riots and looting.
Renters insurance usually covers items in a self-storage unit up to a percentage of your policy's limits, which is often 10%. For example, if you have a policy that covers your personal property up to a maximum of $50,000, you would be insured up to $5,000 for the items in your storage unit.
Here are some common limits to coverage for personal items in a storage unit:
It's essential to review your policy language carefully to understand how much coverage you will receive for specific items while in storage versus while they're in your home.
Where to Buy

You can purchase storage unit insurance directly from your self-storage company, as they often display coverage options when you request a quote.
Many self-storage companies offer their own insurance options, so it's worth checking with your provider to see what they have available.
Some self-storage companies will also provide you with information on third-party insurance options, giving you a choice in how you want to protect your belongings.
You can also explore third-party insurance options, which can provide additional coverage beyond what your self-storage company offers.
Investigate Third-Party Options
If you're looking to cover your bases before purchasing storage unit insurance, you can also explore third-party options. Companies like SafeStor and MiniCo specialize in storage unit insurance.
You can use third-party insurance to cover your expensive items while they're in storage without adding to your claim record down the line. This can be a great option if you're concerned about your claim history affecting your insurance rates.
Before deciding which option makes the most sense for you, there's much to think about.
Cost
Insurance options for self-storage units can be a bit confusing, but let's break it down to the basics. Self-storage insurance policies are generally pretty affordable, with most renters insurance policies costing less than $30 a month.
The cost of these policies varies depending on the coverage amount you choose. For example, getting coverage through SafeStor for $10,000 would cost around $18 per month.
Here's a breakdown of the costs for different coverage amounts:
If you're wondering how much renters insurance will cover for your self-storage unit, the answer is up to 10% of your policy's limits. So if you have a policy that covers your personal property up to $50,000, you'd be insured up to $5,000 for the items in your storage unit.
It's worth noting that certain items, like electronics, jewelry, or musical instruments, will still have specific coverage limits, even in your storage unit. For example, portable electronics are capped at $1,500, while jewelry and watches are also limited to $1,500.
Understanding Your Policy
Your coverage limit is the maximum amount the policy will pay after a claim, and it's essential to consider purchasing additional insurance coverage if your items are more valuable than your coverage limit.
Coverage varies between companies and geographic regions, so getting a written copy of the policy from prospective companies is imperative.
Most storage insurance policies cover customer's personal belongings from multiple kinds of loss or damage, including fire and smoke, explosions, and theft and vandalism.
Typically, items that are illegal, dangerous, or perishable are excluded from coverage, and you should review your plan's terms and conditions to ensure that your stored items are covered.
Here's a breakdown of common coverage options:
$2,000 policies generally cost between $10 and $40 per month, while $5,000 policies generally cost between $25 and $100 per month.
Filing a Claim
Filing a public storage insurance claim typically involves several steps, starting with reporting the loss or damage to the facility. You should provide detailed information about the incident, including the date, time, and relevant circumstances.
To begin the claims process, you'll need to submit a claim form, which will require information about your insurance policy, the nature of the loss or damage, and a detailed inventory of your belongings. Make sure to gather all relevant supporting documentation to strengthen your claim.
You'll need to document the damage or loss by taking photos and making a list of the affected items. This evidence will help support your claim and ensure that you receive the compensation you're entitled to.
The claims process can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the loss or damage, but it's essential to remain patient and cooperate with the insurance provider throughout the process.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the claims process:
- Report the loss or damage to the facility immediately
- Submit a claim form with all necessary information
- Gather supporting documentation, including photos and receipts
- Review and submit the completed claim form
- Cooperate with investigators and provide all necessary information
By following these steps and maintaining open communication with the public storage facility, you can ensure a smooth and successful claims process.
Common Issues
Documenting damage or loss properly is crucial to avoid claim denial. Make sure to document everything thoroughly and honestly.
Failure to follow the proper claims process can lead to denied claims. Review your plan's terms carefully to understand the process.
Most plans do not cover damage or loss due to tenant negligence. Be aware of what your plan covers and what it doesn't.
Claims can take a few weeks to process, depending on the plan provider and the complexity of the claim. Be patient and follow up if you haven't heard back.
The amount of compensation you receive will depend on your plan's coverage and the value of the lost or damaged items. Don't expect full compensation for your losses.
Here are some common reasons for claim denial:
- Failure to document the damage or loss properly
- Attempting to file a claim for items that are not covered under the plan
- Failing to follow the proper claims process
- Making false or misleading statements in the claim
Frequently Asked Questions
Who insures public storage?
Public Storage does not provide insurance coverage for stored goods. Instead, customers can opt for the Orange Door Storage Insurance Program, a specialized insurance plan designed specifically for Public Storage customers.
What documentation is needed for a storage claim?
To file a successful storage claim, you'll need to gather documents like your insurance policy, storage unit agreement, and photos of the damage. Review your insurance provider's guidelines and the storage facility's agreement for specific requirements.
Sources
- https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/storage-unit-insurance/
- https://www.valuepenguin.com/does-renters-insurance-cover-property-self-storage-units
- https://www.click2houston.com/news/investigates/2022/03/02/kprc-2-investigates-theft-at-self-storage-unit-but-insurance-wont-cover-it/
- https://claim.laptophot.vn/public-storage-insurance-claims-a-comprehensive-guide/
- https://storage-shield.com/a-guide-to-filing-self-storage-tenant-protection-plan-claims/
Featured Images: pexels.com