Share :
Share :
Did you know storage unit insurance is usually already included in your policy? Having a storage unit is increasingly common for Canadians. It's a great place to store those things that can clutter your living space that you seldom use.
Tenants and homeowners are often surprised to find out that their belongings in storage do have some protection. How much will depend on your policy and insurer. It’s important to consider how much you are storing and what its value is so your home insurance in Canada is enough.
Whether you are looking for a place to store items while you move or travel, or you want to declutter your place, you want to make sure it is covered for any potential damages. Here is what you need to consider when it comes to storage unit insurance.
Storage unit insurance will protect your items that are in a storage unit. Some areas that would be covered include theft, weather, and vandalism. Things can go wrong, and insurance will protect your belongings from accidents.
You will likely have some coverage from your renters or home insurance, but it is often quite limited when it comes to off-premises belongings away from your home. Some storage facilities will require you to have proof of insurance and a certain level of coverage in your policy.
Depending on the company and the plan, insurance for storage units can be added or included in your policy. Since many storage facilities require clients to have protection, they may offer coverage from a third-party insurer. Always check what is covered and what is excluded so there are no surprises in the event of a claim.
Homeowners and tenant insurance generally cover up to 10% of your policy while they are in storage. Note that some items may be excluded from coverage if they are in a storage facility. If your personal property limit is $20,000, then $2,000 worth of items would be protected.
Another example to consider is that if you are working on renovations for your home office and your living space is unfit to store items. You want to move some books, a desk, and art into a storage unit. If the items get ruined in storage, you will be covered for up to the full coverage limit instead of only 10%. Verify coverage with your provider beforehand just to make sure.
Storage facilities can require customers to have coverage. Keep in mind that storage companies will have commercial insurance to protect their property, but it won’t include your items. You are not covered under the storage facilities policy.
Storage unit coverage varies from place to place, so always ask for details and read the fine print. Most plans will cover your belongings against damages, including:
Most policies will not protect your items in the event of floods, earthquakes, or mudslides. It’s always worth speaking to an expert to add additional options such as water damage insurance for items that are in storage.
There are a few options to consider with insurance for a storage unit. Here is a look at some things to consider:
If you are looking to place items in storage, look for a reputable storage facility. Read reviews online and review their security measures and policies. Here are a few tips to consider when storing items:
Make sure the locks work and ask about 24-hour video surveillance and alarm systems.
You’ll also want to ensure the premises are clean and free of mildew and rodent damage that can damage your belongings.
When you are packing items for storage, protect fragile items and use plastic bins
If you are storing items longer than 90 days, you may want to consider a standalone policy such as contents insurance to cover unique items and more risks. Even if a storage facility offers coverage, be sure to speak with a ThinkInsure broker to learn more about insurance endorsements and get a better rate.
Depending on the coverage and your provider, storage unit policies can cost between $8 and $40 per month. This will depend on any additional limits you add or if you choose the base offer.
You may be surprised to learn that insurance for renters can cover items in storage. If your policy covers you for $35,000 in personal property protection, it could include $3,500 for items in storage. Coverage for items in an onsite storage locker in your apartment is typically included. This will vary depending on your policy limits. Always speak with a broker to ensure you have your needs met or if you want to add more.
Yes! Accidents happen, and you want to ensure your property is protected.
Most tenant, home, and condo insurance agreements will include items in storage. Always check your policy before you sign any documents to ensure you have enough coverage.
Share
| Categories | Home |
|---|---|
| Tags | Buying and Selling Your HomeProtect Your HomeHome Coverage |
Checkout our latest articles on insurance and other helpful topics.
Are you wondering how much a careless driving ticket will affect your insurance in Ontario? Get our questions answered and learn how much you may see your rate go up.
Got a careless driving ticket in Ontario? Here’s everything you need to know about careless driving charges, fines, and penalties.
You may not have control over the rain, but you can control how you handle hydroplaning (aquaplaning). Here’s how hydroplaning can happen and what to do to prevent it.
Our experts offer 25 safety tips for driving in the rain. You’ll discover the best lights to use, what speed limit to follow, how to drive safe when it’s raining.
