Don’t Store These Illegal Items in Storage Units!

Booking a storage unit for yourself is easy. But do you know what can’t be stored? If not, then kindly read this blog. Rock Solid Storage will help you understand what is typically prohibited (illegal items) in storage facilities so that you use your rented space safely and lawfully.

Illegal Items to Avoid in Storage Units

Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials can be flammable, corrosive, toxic, or explosive. This makes them dangerous for storage units. Examples:

Gasoline, Propane, and Kerosene

Flammable liquids and gasses are not permitted in storage units due to the risk of fire or explosion.

Pesticides and Fertilizers

These substances are harmful to human health and the environment, especially if they leak or spill.

Paint and Paint Thinners

These are not only flammable but can also release harmful fumes.

Acids and Other Corrosive Chemicals

Such substances can cause severe damage to storage unit walls and floors and pose a high health risk if they come into contact with skin or eyes.

Perishable Food & Animal Products

Perishable food and animal products in storage units are not suitable because they can spoil, attract pests, and create unpleasant odors. This can even lead to infestations of rodents, insects, and other pests, eventually causing damage to other stored items and the facility itself. Examples:

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

These can rot and attract pests quickly.

Meat, Fish, and Dairy Products

These spoil easily and can produce foul odors and bacteria.

Pet Food

Improper storage of even dry pet food can attract pests.

Illegal Substances and Items

Illegal substances or items are strictly prohibited in storage units. This includes the following:

Drugs and Narcotics

Possessing illegal drugs is a criminal offense, and storing them in a storage unit doesn’t make it any less illegal.

Stolen Goods

If the item’s origin is questionable or it’s known to be stolen, storing it in a unit is illegal.

Unregistered Firearms or Explosives

Unregistered or illegal weapons should never be stored in a unit.

Living Things

It is illegal and inhumane to store any living things in a storage unit. Storage units are not designed to house living beings and doing so means severe health risks or death. Examples include:

Pets

Animals cannot survive in storage units due to a lack of food, water, ventilation, and temperature control.

Plants

Plants require sunlight, water, and air to survive—conditions that a storage unit cannot provide.

Weapons and Ammunition

Firearms, ammunition, and other weapons in storage units are heavily regulated. While some facilities may allow firearms under certain conditions, many do not due to safety concerns. Items in this category include:

Guns and Rifles

Some storage units may allow these if they are unloaded and properly secured, but many facilities prohibit them entirely.

Ammunition

Storing bullets or other ammunition is generally not allowed due to the risk of accidental discharge or explosion.

Explosives and Fireworks

These items are extremely dangerous and are illegal to store in most storage units.

Always check with your storage facility’s policies and local laws regarding the storage of firearms and related items.

Medical or Biological Waste

Medical and biological waste is prohibited in storage units due to health hazards they have. These spread disease, contaminate other stored items, and cause serious risks to anyone coming in contact with them. Examples of prohibited medical waste include:

Used Syringes and Needles

These may lead to injuries and the spread of infections.

Body Fluids or Human Tissue

These are considered biohazards and must be disposed of properly as per medical waste regulations.

Expired Medications

Old or unused medications can be dangerous and should be disposed of as per local guidelines.

Combustible and Flammable Items

Explosive items are generally not allowed in storage units due to the risk of fire hazards. This category overlaps with hazardous materials but focuses specifically on combustible items. Examples of combustible items include:

Propane Tanks and Gasoline Cans

These are highly flammable and pose a severe risk in an enclosed space.

Charcoal and Lighter Fluid

These items are also highly combustible and are generally prohibited.

Aerosol Cans

Many aerosol products contain flammable propellants, making them dangerous to store.

Keeping such items in a storage unit is a violation of most facilities’ rules and can result in eviction and potential legal action.

Building Materials and Waste

Storing building materials and construction waste is also unsafe. Examples include:

Asbestos-Containing Materials

Asbestos can be dangerous when its fibers are inhaled, causing fatal lung conditions.

Construction Debris

Items like old drywall, broken bricks, or scrap wood are dangerous if they contain nails, glass, or other sharp objects.

Chemicals Used in Construction

Items like sealants, adhesives, and solvents are often flammable or toxic.

Vehicles and Machinery with Fuel

Although some storage facilities permit vehicle storage, they have strict guidelines in place. Vehicles and machinery must be drained of all fuel and oil before storage to prevent any fire accidents. Examples include cars, motorcycles, lawnmowers, chainsaws, etc.

Valuables and Irreplaceable Items

Never store highly valuable or irreplaceable items in storage units. Most storage facilities have limited liability for loss or damage and your insurance may not cover these items if something happens. Examples:

Family Heirlooms

Items with sentimental value are often irreplaceable.

Jewelry and Cash

These should be stored in a secure location, such as a safe deposit box.

Important Documents

Documents like birth certificates, passports, and wills should be kept in a safe and easily accessible place.

Conclusion on Storing Illegal Items in Storage Units

Knowing what you can or cannot store is essential for your safety and the safety of others. Storage facilities have specific rules and regulations in place to prevent any mishappenings. When in doubt, always consult your storage facility’s policies and local laws.

If you are looking for storage units in Texas, especially Rockdale and Caldwell, you can get in touch. We’ll explain to you what to store and what not.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it fine if I keep my car in a storage unit?

Yes, you can store your car in a storage unit, but you must drain it of all fuel and oil. Some facilities also require proof of insurance and registration.

Are there temperature-controlled units for storing sensitive items?

Yes, many storage facilities including ours offer climate-controlled units designed for sensitive items like electronics, artwork, or wooden furniture. Always ask your storage provider if this option is available.

What happens if I accidentally store an illegal item?

If you accidentally store an illegal item, the storage facility may terminate your lease, remove the item, and possibly contact law enforcement. So thoroughly check the facility’s rules and regulations before storing anything.

What about cleaning supplies in a storage unit?

It depends on the type of cleaning supplies. Most non-flammable household cleaning products are allowed, but items like bleach or ammonia should be checked with the facility before storing.

Is it alright to keep my firearm in a storage unit?

Storing firearms in storage units is highly regulated and varies by facility and local laws. Many facilities prohibit firearms altogether, so confirm the same from the storage provider and local regulations beforehand.