Thoughts on resto in public storage unit?

[truk820]

I'm space constrained (living in a city) and am considering renting a storage unit down the street to start my project.

A few questions:

1. Has anyone done this? If so, any tips / tricks / feedback?
2. What size unit should I go with?
3. Other than power, is it common for storage unit rentals to have access to water for a hose?
4. Are storage unit owners ok with people working on cars there?

Thanks!

 

[PaRenegade]

I would think most rental places specifically restrict working on cars there due to liability issues. But I have no personal experience with it.

 

[gert]

lol ya I had an apartment with a garage and the Land Lord got bent out of shape when he figured out I was restoring a jeep in his garage. I have a storage unit now but all the ones i have been to do not have power. I think it best if you ask them if they permit it. a 10x30 is a good start for size wise thats the biggest one that my storage place has Good luck let us know how it goes

 

[tinhorn]

I think you'll find that storage companies specifically prohibit this activity. Check Craigslist for garages/shops for rent, and spread the word of your search among your friends. I've found a couple of them over the past few years, but make sure they're not being rented for "dead storage" only.

 

[truk820]

Yeah this was a fruitless search...all the public storage companies have serious liability issues. Oh well, on to the next options and thanks to everyone!

 

[Saddle Tramp]

I use to build Public Storage facilities some years back and they went to great lengths to make sure tenants couldn’t get to a power source as it wasn’t uncommon for people to plug in freezers and such. The light socket was the go to so that’s why they are now on timers.

However just before the big crash there was a group that was building condo style (you bought your unit) garages similar to a mini storage set up but with the intention of catering to gearheads. Heck some of these places even have a common club house set up just short of a sports bar. The point is maybe some of these places have ended up as rentals while the dust settles. Not sure where to start looking other than Craig’s List.