How can movers help you stage a home
Home staging is an important task when moving out and renting your old home. However, it can be pretty challenging. There are a lot ...
Storage rules and regulations in Florida and how to use the best of them
Using a storage unit is a valuable asset when it comes to relocation, home renovation, or living in a temporary home. However, it is not enough to just prepare and store your belongings there. It is important to understand storage rules and regulations in Florida and how to use the best of them. Luckily, you don’t have to scroll down the internet reading endlessly. Pro Movers Miami is here to provide you with all the information you may need regarding what you can and cannot store in a unit, the time you can store your belongings, and other relatable information.
A brief guide on storage rules and regulations in Florida
Here’s what you can expect in this guide regarding storage rules and regulations in Florida when it comes to law:
- Lease Agreement: Storage facilities in Florida usually require renters to sign a lease agreement. This document outlines terms like rental period, payment terms, and rules for the use of the storage unit.
- Payments and late fees: Renters must pay storage fees as agreed in the lease. Florida laws allow storage facilities to charge late fees, but these must be reasonable and specified in the lease.
- Liability and insurance: Storage facilities are not typically liable for damage or theft of stored items. Renters are encouraged to purchase insurance for their stored possessions.
- Termination of lease: The lease agreement usually specifies how either party can terminate the agreement and the notice required.
Let’s explain these further.
What is a storage lease agreement?
In Florida, when you rent a storage unit, you sign a storage lease agreement. This agreement is important as it sets the rules for using the storage space. It defines who the owner and tenant are and what counts as a self-service storage facility or a self-contained storage unit. The agreement includes details like how long you can rent the unit, how much you need to pay, and the rules you need to follow.
One key rule is that you can’t live and work in the storage unit. If you rent on a month-to-month basis, you or the owner can end the agreement with a 15-day notice before the end of the month. If you don’t pay your rent, the owner has the right to take back the unit. Also, if you stay in the unit after your lease ends without a new written agreement, the owner may charge you extra rent. This applies to self-storage. When renting Miami storage facilities, ask your moving company to provide you with detailed information on your storage lease agreement.
Self-storage rules and regulations in Florida when it comes to payments
In Florida, if you rent a self-storage unit and miss your rent payment, the owner has the right to lock you out of the unit five days after your payment is due. They can also claim a lien on your stored items, meaning they have a legal right over your belongings until you pay what you owe. To enforce this lien, the owner must notify you in writing, giving you at least 14 days to settle your dues. If you still don’t pay, they can sell your items to recover the rent. They’ll advertise this sale in a local newspaper or by posting notices. Also, be aware that storage owners can charge late fees for overdue payments.
In Florida, a late fee of $20 or 20% of the monthly rent, whichever is greater, is considered reasonable. These fees and policies should be clearly stated in your rental agreement. For more detailed rules and regulations, please review the sources provided.
Payment rules when renting a storage unit from a moving company
For renting storage from a moving company, the rules might differ based on the company’s policies and any state-specific regulations that apply. It’s advisable to review the specific terms and conditions provided by the moving company for accurate information. Besides, the payment may depend on the type of relocation for which you are using a storage unit. Thus, contact your local or long distance movers in Florida and find out about the payment rules.
Liability and insurance when renting a self-storage unit in Florida
When it comes to payment storage rules and regulations in Florida, typically, the storage facility’s owner isn’t responsible for any damage or loss of your stored items. So, it’s up to you to protect your belongings. Many storage facilities offer their own insurance plans, but these might not cover all risks. Therefore, consider getting external insurance coverage for complete peace of mind. Also, it’s important to check the facility’s security measures, like cameras or guards, as these can impact the safety of your items.
Liability and insurance when renting a storage unit in Florida from a moving company
On the other hand, when renting storage space from a moving company in Florida, the rules can be different. Moving companies often provide some level of liability coverage as part of their service. However, this coverage might be basic and could only offer compensation based on the weight of the item, not its actual value. So, it’s wise to ask the moving company about their storage and moving insurance policies and consider purchasing additional insurance if their coverage seems insufficient. Remember, whether it’s a self-storage unit or a storage service from a moving company, always read the fine print in the rental agreement to understand your rights and responsibilities regarding liability and insurance.
Storage rules and regulations in Florida regarding lease termination
When it comes to lease termination for self-storage units in Florida, the rules depend on the type of tenancy agreement you have. If your agreement is from year to year, you must give at least 3 months’ notice before the end of any annual period to terminate it. For quarter-to-quarter tenancies, the notice period is at least 45 days. If your tenancy is month-to-month, you should provide at least 15 days’ notice. And for week-to-week agreements, the minimum notice is 7 days. After the lease term expires, if you continue to use the storage without a new written agreement, this can lead to a tenancy at sufferance. In such cases, the mere acceptance of rent doesn’t renew the lease term.
However, if the lease holding over is with the written consent of the lessor, it becomes a tenancy at will. In both cases, whether self-storage or moving company storage, not adhering to the lease termination rules can result in additional charges or legal complications.
Physical rules and regulations when renting a storage unit in Florida
The rules and regulations of the physical aspect of renting a storage unit in Florida are equally important as the ones related to the law. These are the things to have in mind when renting storage in Florida.
- Access and security: Storage facilities often provide specific guidelines on access hours and security measures. Renters usually receive a key or code to access their unit.
- Prohibited items: Most storage facilities in Florida prohibit the storage of hazardous materials, perishable goods, stolen items, illegal substances, and live animals.
- Default and auctions: If a renter fails to pay the storage fees, Florida law permits the facility to auction off the contents of the storage unit after a certain period and proper notification.
- Maintenance and cleanliness: Renters must maintain their units and leave them clean and undamaged upon vacating. Facilities may charge for cleaning or damages.
- Climate control: Some facilities offer climate-controlled units for sensitive items. This may be governed by specific rules regarding what can be stored in these units.
- Size and type of storage: Facilities often have various sizes and types of storage units, each with specific rules regarding what can be stored and how it should be stored.
Storage rules and regulations in Florida regarding accessibility and security
No matter whether in Florida or beyond, accessibility and security features differ from place to place. Besides, they will depend on whether it is a self-storage or the one provided by a moving company. Self-storage units might offer 24-hour access, gated entry, surveillance cameras, and individual locks.
On the other hand, storage services from moving companies could include different security measures. The measures are often tailored to the duration and type of storage they provide. Additionally, some might offer climate-controlled units or extra insurance options. It’s essential to assess these features based on your specific storage needs and preferences for maximum security and convenience. The accessibility and security also depend on whether it is on demand warehouse. These warehouses typically provide more dynamic access options, catering to fluctuating storage needs. Their security measures are often robust, designed to protect a variety of goods that may be constantly moving in and out of the facility.
Types of items you can and cannot store in a storage unit
In storage units, the types of items you can store usually include household goods like furniture, electronics, clothes, and documents. People often use storage units to keep seasonal items, such as holiday decorations or summer gear, safe and out of the way. Collectibles and other valuables are also commonly stored. However, it’s essential to ensure the unit has adequate security and climate control for sensitive items. To ensure the safety of your valuable items, the best solution is to hire a luxury moving company to pack and transport them to a storage unit.
However, there are certain things you shouldn’t store in a storage unit. Hazardous materials, including chemicals, flammable liquids, explosives, and biohazardous waste, are strictly prohibited. Perishable food items are also not allowed as they can attract pests. Storing illegal items or stolen goods is, of course, forbidden. Additionally, most facilities don’t allow the storage of plants or animals. It’s crucial to check with the specific storage facility for their rules, as there might be variations depending on the location and the facility’s policies.
Maintenance and cleanliness storage rules and regulations in Florida
Since the specific rules and expectations can vary significantly from one facility to another, it’s crucial for tenants to thoroughly review their rental agreement and discuss any concerns or questions with the storage facility management. However, when you book storage from a mining company, sometimes cleaning and maintenance are included. Besides, the movers will organize your storage unit according to your needs.
Rules and regulations in a white glove storage unit
If you opt for a white glove storage unit, different rules may apply to it, especially when it comes to maintenance and cleanliness. Usually, white-glove storage units and services are provided by moving companies. So, maintenance is usually provided due to the fact the storage is a white glove one. These units often feature climate control. Besides, security measures are usually enhanced, with advanced surveillance and restricted access to protect valuable items. Additionally, white glove services may offer inventory management and itemized storage, allowing for easy tracking and retrieval of items. Due to the specialized nature of these services, the costs may generally be higher than standard storage units. This reflects the premium level of care and service provided.
How to use the best of the storage rules and regulations in Florida
To make the best use of storage rules and regulations in Florida, it’s more advantageous to opt for a storage unit from a moving company rather than self-storage. Moving companies usually handle a lot of the storage-related work, reducing the hassle for you. They can explain all the necessary details about storage rules and regulations in the state. Such companies often offer additional services like inventory management, enhanced security, and climate control. So, if you’re looking for reliable storage solutions in Florida, consider hiring Pro Movers Miami, one of the top moving companies in the region. We can provide you with comprehensive services to meet your needs, ensuring your belongings are safe and placed according to all legal requirements. Therefore, contact us and get moving quotes Miami residents are satisfied with.
References:
Chapter 83 Section 803 – 2023 Florida Statutes. (n.d.). M.flsenate.gov. Retrieved January 24, 2024, from https://m.flsenate.gov/Statutes/83.803
https://codes.findlaw.com/fl/title-vi-civil-practice-and-procedure/fl-st-sect-83-803/
Florida Self Storage Association > News / Resources / Online Store > Florida Lien Law. (n.d.). Www.floridassa.org. Retrieved January 24, 2024, from https://www.floridassa.org/News-Resources/Lien-Law