From time to time, facility staff maintaining storage units in Longmont and elsewhere discover people attempting to live inside their rented unit. While we understand the desperation that may drive a person to do this, there are a number of reasons why it should never, under any circumstance, be attempted.
Lack of Temperature Regulation
Most storage units, including those at our facility, are not climate-controlled. Because of this fact, the units—which are essentially metal boxes—tend to be colder in the winter and hotter in the summer; much hotter. Anyone attempting to live inside of their unit may quickly become hypothermic or develop heat stroke; both extremely dangerous conditions. Those living with pets in their unit may not notice the symptoms in said pet before it's too late.
It's Illegal
Everyone who rents at AAA Storage signs a contract stating that they will never attempt to live inside of their unit, or even occupy it while the door is closed. Many storage facilities, including AAA Storage in Longmont, have surveillance systems that can provide proof of attempts to live inside units. A person may save money on rent by living inside of a storage unit, but the costs in criminal penalties should they be discovered will outweigh any benefits.
Building Codes
Something going on behind the scenes of any legally-valid living situation is the building code making those locations suitable for residence. Since storage units are not meant to be lived in, the building codes to be adhered to by owners concerning the safety of occupants are far less strict. This means no emergency exits, no smoke alarms or any of the other subtler features of homes which enable tenants or owners to live in safety.
This concludes part 1 of our articles on the extreme danger of attempting to live inside of storage units. If you or someone you know is struggling with homelessness, there are resources in Longmont that can help.
Contact AAA Storage at 303-776-3629 or browse our units if you are interested in renting.