Many people own a storage unit in Bend Oregon. Sometimes, storage units are used only for a few months during a home remodel or cross-country move. Sometimes, storage units are used for many years. These long-term units are often the most problematic when someone dies. However, short-term units can be problematic. Although it is not something that most people think about when renting a storage unit in Bend Oregon, it is important to consider what might happen to the unit if they are killed. There are many ways to minimize the chance of the unit becoming a probate issue. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Share your Storage Unit in Bend Oregon with someone you trust
Even if you have a good reason to keep your storage unit rental secret, it is important that at least one person knows about it. You can’t tell anyone that you own a storage unit if they don’t know. You may find the things in your storage unit important, which could make them important to your family members and loved ones. You can tell your spouse, your adult child, your parent or a trusted friend about the storage unit. They need to know where the unit is located and what number it is. This information is required to access the unit.
If someone keeps a storage space quiet, it’s usually because they have a good reason. Sometimes people are just very private and don’t want anyone to know about their possessions or what they have. This is a good thing, but it can be a problem if the person dies. You can leave a letter or note with your belongings if you choose not to disclose your storage unit rental to anyone. This will let your family know that you have a storage unit and allow them to arrange for you to pick up your belongings or clean it out if they are no longer required.
Add another person to your storage unit lease
You can also add another person to your lease to ensure that the storage unit is still in good condition after you die. You might not be able to do this at all facilities, so make sure you check around to find one that allows you to do it. You can rest assured that your storage unit will be taken good care of in the case of your death. You must trust the other person signing the lease. The other person on the lease will be able to access the unit for as long as they are there, and not only if you die. Don’t let them take anything out of the unit, or use it for any purpose you weren’t authorized to.
Share the Entrance Key or Code with a close relative or friend
Giving the access code or extra key to someone you love or a trusted friend can help. They will still be able access the unit even if you are no longer living. However, they won’t be responsible for the rent and won’t be part of the lease. They can access the unit at any moment, just like adding them to your lease. You should choose someone you can trust to do this so that you are confident about the possibility of them accessing any items you have stored in your rental unit.
Relatives could be locked out after your death
Many storage unit companies will notify tenants of the death to lock their units so that others cannot access them. This is different if another person is on the lease. However, if someone only has your access code, they will likely be locked out. This is done by storage companies to ensure there are no probate or will issues. They want to prevent someone from coming and taking everything out your storage unit after you have passed away. You may have items in the storage unit that you want to leave to someone.
Legal Documentation to Set Up Storage Unit Access
You can avoid the lock-out problem by having legal documentation that allows someone access to your storage unit in Bend Oregon after your death. This is usually a close family member, but it could also be a friend or executor of your estate. The requirements for proper documentation vary from one state to the next. It’s important that you find out exactly what you need, and follow all legal requirements. This will allow you to be confident that your belongings will not be lost or stolen.
Make arrangements to have the rental payments made
Although your family may be able to move your storage unit in Bend Oregon quickly, it doesn’t mean that there won’t still be money owed. It is important to make the rent payments or your unit and contents may be taken. You have the option to leave money or instructions for the payment. Whatever you do, it is important that your loved ones or trusted friends know your wishes. These are some tips to help prevent your loved ones’ stuff ending up in Storage Wars.
Although it is not easy to consider what will happen to your belongings after you die, it is important to do so. You can feel more confident about the items in your storage unit and how they are accessed.
Greenbar Secure Storage has a wide range of storage units available in Prineville, Bend, Madras, and Redmond Oregon. They offer a variety, including ground-level access, security cameras, 24/7 accessibility, and parking spaces. Locally owned and operated, we are the best choice for convenient and clean self-storage units. All of our commercial storage clients accept deliveries from businesses to make things as smooth as possible!
Storage Benefits
- Extra security and family-friendly
- Unbeatable onsite entrance tech
- Each unit is protected by a unique code
- Access your unit at your leisure
- Save money and have convenience when you most need it
We are proud of the many layers and security of control we have put into our secure storage units such as:
- High, heavy-duty fencing surrounds the storage facility at all locations including Redmond
- You can access your unit via electronic access using personalized codes.
- Timed access to individual units after entry and an automatic reset of security
- Galvanized steel walls are almost impossible to crack in storage units in Madras and our locations in Central Oregon.
- All hours of the day and night, well-lit areas in Bend and other Greenbar Secure Self Storage centers.
- A resident storage manager who lives on-site, carefully selected and screened and selected out of Prineville.
Contact us to reserve your secure unit today with Greenbar Secure Storage!
** This blog post does not offer legal advice. It is a general overview of how to handle a deceased tenant’s storage unit. Consult legal counsel, as laws can vary depending on state and situation.