While the majority of self storage facilities are well-protected with advanced security measures, there is no way to completely stop mishaps and criminal activity. When these problems occur, self storage insurance as well as your homeowners’ policy offer coverage, less your deductibles. A Storage Shield tenant protection plan, however, gives you an extra layer of security against a regrettable loss. A tenant protection plan offers coverage over and above your self storage and homeowners’ insurance.
A tenant protection plan is not an insurance policy but a contract between a self storage facility and the tenant. The facility operators agree to assume responsibility for items that are secured in a locked unit. They will pay damages to belongings up to a specific dollar amount. In addition to the other benefits of a protection plan, if you do suffer a loss and need to file a claim we make it a painless process.
Filing a Claim is Painless
Be assured that the management staff will work closely with you to gather the necessary information, complete all forms, and carefully guide you through the entire process. If you don’t have access to a computer or you’re not comfortable using one, you’ll be assisted in our office.
In order for Storage Shield to finalize the claim review process, they will need the following documents.
Manager and Customer Statements: Both of these statements can be completed and signed on the Tenant Claim Affidavit.
Rental and Protection Plan Agreements: These agreements must be provided by the Property Manager, along with a payment ledger.
Itemized Inventory Spreadsheet: An itemized inventory spreadsheet documenting items that were damaged and need to be replaced should be completed. Along with this, the tenant will need receipts for damaged or stolen goods or web links to items similar in price. Weblinks are necessary for any item valued at over $500.
Photos Verifying Damage or Forced Entry: Photos of damaged items and any photos showing forced entry or a cut or damaged lock or latch need to be provided. A screenshot of the security footage at the time the lock was cut is also necessary. It’s important to verify whether or not a disc lock was used.
Police Report: For claims involving a crime, a police officer should visit the unit and file a police report. A copy of this report must be included with the claim.
If you are the victim of an unexpected event, it’s a good idea to be prepared with any information that you may need when filing a claim.
Be Proactive
Keep a Complete Inventory: It’s not likely that you’re going to remember every item in your storage unit a year from now. That is why you need an accurate inventory of your stored items. It’s ideal to create a spreadsheet containing the value of each item, along with any serial numbers for electronic equipment. This information will be invaluable to you, your insurance company, and your self storage facility if items are missing or destroyed. Remember to take clear photographs and store them on your phone or a flash drive.
Check Your Insurance: Check with your agent to be assured that you have “off-premises” coverage for your belongings. If not, you may need to purchase self storage insurance.
Don’t Forget Your Tenant Protection Plan: Talk to your facility manager for information on a tenant protection plan. It gives you an extra layer of protection that you don’t have with insurance. Check Storage Shield for details.
Final Thoughts
The majority of self storage facilities have security systems and protocols in place to protect your possessions. Give yourself the peace of mind of including a tenant protection plan as an extra layer of security, knowing that if you are the victim of an out-of-the-ordinary event, filing a claim will be quick and painless.