Living in a Self-Storage unit is illegal in most areas and poses serious safety and liability risks for facility owners. Unfortunately, it’s an issue that many operators face at some point.
The good news? By spotting the warning signs early, you can prevent a small problem from becoming a costly legal mess.
Here are 10 signs that a tenant might be secretly living at your facility — and what to watch for:
1. Unusual hours of access
If you notice a tenant consistently accessing their unit late at night or very early in the morning, this could be a red flag. People who live in their storage units tend to use them outside of normal business hours to avoid detection. Make sure your access logs are regularly checked for unusual activity.
2. Visible personal items outside of their storage unit
Look out for personal items stored outside of the unit. If you notice things like furniture, clothes, or appliances left outside or near the storage unit, it’s a sign someone may be trying to set up a temporary living situation.
3. Presence of appliances and bedding
If you find blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, or even small refrigerators or microwaves near or inside a unit, this could indicate that someone is trying to live in the space. A quick walk through your facility can help you spot these items.
4. Significant amount of foot traffic
If a tenant is consistently walking to and from their unit during off-peak hours, or you hear strange noises like conversations or footsteps at night, it’s a possible indicator of unauthorized living.
5. Unit’s door is often open
Frequent open unit doors may suggest someone wants easy access for living purposes. This could also lead to other signs like noise or lighting at odd hours.
6. Evidence of electrical or water hookup
If you find unauthorized electrical equipment or water hookups, this is a clear sign that a tenant may be trying to make the unit livable—against facility rules and safety codes.
7. Personal hygiene products or toiletries
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoos, or soap inside a unit are unusual unless someone is spending extended time there. These are red flags for unauthorized living.
8. Increased use of the facility’s bathroom
Frequent or lengthy restroom visits by a tenant—especially with large bags—might suggest they’re using the facility for more than just storage.
9. Evidence of cooking and strange smells
Cooking odors, burnt food, or signs of hot plates and portable stoves are violations and possible signs of living inside the unit.
10. Long-term leases or extended rental periods
Long-term rentals aren’t unusual, but when combined with frequent access and other signs, they could suggest someone is living on-site. Monitor tenant activity to ensure units are being used appropriately.
So there you have it — 10 signs a tenant might be living at your facility. If you see any of these signs, take action quickly to avoid safety and legal issues.
If you’re interested in buying or selling storage facilities nationwide, Calvary Realty would love to help. We have a 5-star rating on Google and hundreds of satisfied clients.
Thanks for your time and keep making money!
By Brandon Robinson
(909) 380-0073
brobinson@calvaryrealty.com
Ingla Robinson
(909) 380-0073
irobinson@calvaryrealty.com
