If you have experienced some significant financial or legal trouble and you want to rent a self storage unit, you may be worried about the application process. You know that having a low credit score or a felony conviction on one's record can lead to problems renting an apartment or getting a job. Fortunately, these usually aren't issues when seeking to rent a storage unit. 

Typical Requirements for Storage Unit Rental

Some storage facilities don't require an application as such. You will need to sign paperwork agreeing to pay your rental fee on time and to abide by restrictions, such as not storing ammunition in the unit. Other centers have a straightforward application you can fill out in person or online. In both cases, a few types of information will be required.

You'll need to provide government-issued photo identification as proof of identity. A driver's license, passport or state-issued ID are accepted.

The facility will also want your mailing address, phone number and email address. They will probably ask for a secondary contact, such as a relative or close friend. This would provide another way to contact you if you don't pay an upcoming rental fee and don't respond to a phone call or email.  

Unusual Requirements for Storage Unit Rental

Although it's unlikely, you may run across some unusual requirements.

You probably won't find a facility that requires a credit check, but on rare occasion a storage center does require background checks. This place may be located in an area prone to criminal activity, or the owner may have experienced trouble in the past with people storing illegal items. They may want to be sure nobody with nighttime access is a distinct risk for breaking into other rental units. 

If you have a felony conviction on your record, you might decide to pass on agreeing to a background check. However, if this is the storage center you like the best, you may want to give it a try. If your conviction is for a nonviolent crime unrelated to theft or security issues, the facility owner may still allow you to rent there.

For instance, if you have a felony DUI conviction on your record, that may not seem relevant to the facility owner -- especially if it happened a long time ago. However, if you were convicted of drug possession with intent to sell, the owner may worry that you plan to store drugs on the site. 

For more information on the requirements for renting a self storage unit, contact a storage company in your area.