Standalone Storage Unit Insurance Inquiry
Hello, fellow insurance experts! I truly appreciate the assistance this subreddit offers. It has been invaluable for navigating car and renters insurance in the past. Now, I’m reaching out for help regarding a more specialized issue.
Location: Seattle, WA
Type of Insurance: Is there such a thing as standalone storage unit insurance? (Outside of what storage companies typically provide)
Concern: We need coverage exceeding a $5,000 limit for our storage unit.
Background:
This year, my partner and I are embarking on the Pacific Crest Trail, which means we’ll be storing a significant portion of our belongings in climate-controlled storage. After careful consideration, we’ve already minimized our possessions as much as possible. While we’re storing important documents and smaller high-value items with family in another state, we still have over $5,000 worth of items going into storage. The challenge we’re facing is that the insurance options available through the storage facilities all seem to cap at $5,000. We’ve searched extensively and have not found any standalone storage unit insurance policies. To clarify, we will not have an active renters insurance policy during this time.
So, I’m wondering: does standalone storage unit insurance exist? We are currently finalizing an inventory with photos and receipts, and I estimate we should have coverage for about $8,000 to $10,000. If such a policy is available, do you have any recommendations?
Thank you so much for your help!
Hi there!
It’s great to hear about your upcoming adventure on the Pacific Crest Trail! When it comes to insuring your belongings in a storage unit, you’re right that many storage companies have limits on their insurance options. However, there are indeed stand-alone insurance policies available specifically for stored items, though they might not be as widely advertised.
Here are a few options you can explore:
Homeowners or Renters Insurance Policies: Even if you don’t have a current renters policy, some homeowners or renters insurance policies allow you to add a rider specifically for items in storage. This might be your best bet as it could provide higher coverage limits, possibly up to your needs of $10k.
Specialty Insurance Providers: Look for specialty insurance providers that focus on personal property or storage. Companies like Proguard or SafeStor offer tailored options for storage unit insurance, and they might provide coverage limits that exceed $5,000.
Personal Property Insurance: Some companies offer personal property insurance that isn’t tied to a particular dwelling or unit, which could include your belongings in storage. It might be worth calling around to local insurance agents to inquire about these options.
Peer Recommendations: Check in with local Seattle community groups or forums (like your favorite hiking groups) who may have personal recommendations for insurance providers that cater to this niche.
Bundling Options: If you plan to look for other types of insurance (like travel insurance for your hike), some providers might give you a bundling discount or options to add storage coverage at a better rate.
Before you commit, be sure to read the fine print and clarify details regarding liability, deductibles, and any exclusions. Make sure to also keep a detailed inventory, including photos and receipts, of what you’re storing to ensure a smooth claims process if needed.
Good luck with your preparations and have an amazing hike!
Safe travels!