FAQ's
If you have never used self storage before we know you will have questions. We have created this useful FAQ's list to answer most of your questions.
We hope these FAQs help with understanding how self storage works and what you can expect.
Any other queries that you cannot find please do not hesitate to call us. We are always here to answer any question you may have.
General
What is Self Storage?
Self storage gives you your own secure, lockable unit at our Stirling centre for as long or as little as you need. You bring your belongings to us, load them into your unit and lock it with your own padlock. You can then access your things 24/7 using your unique entry code.
What can’t I store?
For safety and legal reasons, the following items cannot be stored at Crest Self Storage:
- Pets
- Food
- Plants
- Guns or weapons
- Drugs
- Explosives
- Toxic materials
- Radioactive substances
- Flammable items (e.g. petrol, gas canisters, solvents)
If you’re unsure about a particular item, just speak to a member of staff and we’ll be happy to advise.
What security do you have?
The security of your belongings is at the heart of what we do. Our facility has 24/7 CCTV, sophisticated alarm systems and individually alarmed units, plus a staffed reception during office hours. You choose a unique PIN code that lets only you (and anyone you authorise) access your unit, which is secured with your own padlock.
How do I book a unit?
You can get started by phone, email or by filling in our online “Get a Quote” form. Once you’re ready to go ahead, just visit us with a valid photo ID and a payment card so we can set up your rental agreement and access code.
Do I need my own padlock?
Yes. Having your own padlock means you’re the only keyholder for your unit. We sell high-security padlocks at reception, or you can bring your own as long as it’s the right size and good quality – just check with us first.
Can I allow other people access to my unit?
Yes. You can give access to as many or as few people as you like. You’ll be responsible for sharing your access code and padlock key with them, and for anything they do on your behalf
Can I rent a padlock?
No, we don’t rent padlocks. You can buy a suitable high-security padlock from us or use your own if it meets our requirements.
What are your open hours?
Our building is accessible 24/7 for customers with a valid access code. Our office team are available:
- Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 17:00
- Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 – 15:00
Are children allows into our facility?
Yes. Children are welcome, but must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Are pets allowed into our facility?
No, pets are not allowed inside the facility, with the exception of registered guide dogs.
Do you offer storage for businesses?
Yes. We provide flexible storage for businesses with a minimum stay of just one week and no maximum length of stay, ideal for stock, equipment, files and more.
Is there parking and help for moving items?
We have on-site parking right at the facility so you can load and unload close to the entrance. If you’re bringing bulky or heavy items, speak to our team and we’ll advise you on the easiest way to move in.
Can I have deliveries sent directly to my unit?
Many of our business and trade customers use their units for stock and supplies. If you’d like to arrange deliveries, contact us first so we can agree how this will work and make sure it fits with our site policies.
Cost/Payment
How much does storage cost?
Our prices depend mainly on the size of unit you choose and how long you need it for. We’ll give you a clear weekly price for your unit, plus the insurance cover you need for the value of your goods. If you choose to buy a padlock from us, that’s just an additional one-off cost. For an exact figure, just get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Are there any hidden costs?
No. We don’t have hidden charges. Your quote will clearly show your storage fees (including VAT), the cost of insurance based on the value of your goods, and the cost of a padlock if you’re buying one from us.
What needs to be paid upfront?
To move in, you simply pay at least one week’s storage fees in advance, plus insurance and a padlock if needed.
How often do I pay for my storage?
We charge for storage in weeks, but how often you actually pay is up to you. You can pay weekly, every 2 or 3 weeks, every 4 weeks, or for longer blocks of weeks (for example the equivalent of 3 or 6 months) in advance. It’s very flexible and can be changed at any time to suit you – the only rule is that payments are always made in advance.
Why isn’t my storage paid monthly?
Our prices are worked out weekly, not monthly. Months aren’t all the same length – some have 4 weeks and some have 5 – so charging weekly keeps things fair and simple. You only ever pay for the exact number of weeks you’re using, and when you leave we refund any unused weeks you’ve paid for in advance.
What kind of payment methods are available?
Most of our customers choose to pay by Direct Debit or standing order for ease and convenience. We also accept cash, debit cards and all major credit cards, including American Express.
What happens to our things if I miss a payment?
If a payment is missed, we’ll contact you and send a reminder first. If the balance hasn’t been cleared within 7 days, your unit may be locked by us and your access code temporarily disabled until payment is brought up to date. We’ll keep in touch with you throughout so you always know what’s happening.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
We don’t take a separate security deposit. Your upfront payment covers your first period of storage, insurance and padlock if you’re buying one from us.
Do you offer student or long-term discounts?
We have great value options for students and long-term customers. Let us know how long you expect to store and what size of unit you need, and we’ll give you our best price with a free, no-obligation quote.
Your Stay & Flexibility
What is the minimum rental period?
Our minimum stay is 7 days. After that, you can store for as long or as little as you like.
How long can I store?
You can stay with us for as long as you need – there’s no maximum rental period. Many of our customers store for months or years.
How quickly can I move in?
You can usually move in the same day, as soon as we’ve seen your ID, set up your agreement and arranged payment and insurance. Once that’s done, you’re free to start using your unit straight away.
Can I change the size of my unit?
Yes – you can move to a smaller or larger unit at any time while you’re renting with us, and you can do this more than once. You can also add extra units if you need more space, subject to availability. We’ll simply update your payments to match your new unit size(s).
How much notice do I need to give when moving out?
We only ask for 7 days’ notice. If you leave before the end of a paid period, we’ll refund any unused storage charges and insurance.
Insurance
Why do I need insurance?
Your belongings must be insured while they’re in storage. We take security very seriously, but events like fire or flood can still occur, and insurance protects the value of your goods if the unexpected happens.
Is insurance compulsory?
Yes. You must have insurance either through our own policy or through an alternative policy that clearly covers goods stored with Crest at our address.
Do I have to use your insurance?
No. You’re welcome to arrange your own cover, but it must specifically state that your goods are stored at our premises and it’s your responsibility to keep that cover valid. Not all home insurance policies include self storage, so please check your terms carefully and provide proof of cover.
How much does the insurance cost?
Insurance costs depend on the replacement value of what you’re storing. As a guide, cover starts from around £4 per week for up to £1,000 of contents (pro-rata £8 for up to £2,000, £12 for up to £3,000, and so on). It’s important that you declare the full replacement value of your goods – do not under-insure.
