Self storage refers to a business that owns and operates a facility that is subdivided into self storage spaces which are rented to tenants, usually on a monthly basis.

Description

The term "self storage" is short for "self-service storage", and is also known as "mini storage" or "mini warehouse" (archaic) . Self storage facilities lease space to individuals, usually storing household goods, or to small businesses, usually storing excess inventory or archived records. The rented spaces, known as "units","rooms" or "lockers" are secured by the tenant's own lock and key. Facility operators do not have casual access to the contents of the space, unlike a professional warehouseman. A self storage operator never takes possession, care, custody or control of the contents of the storage rental space unless a lien is imposed for non-payment of rent. Self storage facility operators frequently provide controlled access to rental space areas, individual door alarms, interior units lights, and security cameras. Goods or items stored are either not insured by the self storage operator, or insured only to a minimal degree; possessions stored are at the tenant's "own risk" or can be protected by tenant-purchased homeowner's insurance or buy purchasing self storage tenant insurance.