FAQs

Self storage provides individuals and businesses with a secure, flexible solution to store their belongings, inventory, or equipment. Self storage allows you to rent a dedicated space where you can store items for as long as needed, whether that’s short-term during a move or long-term for surplus items. The minimum duration for renting a storage unit at The Place is one week.

Our facilities are open 7-days a week, but the hours in which you can access your unit vary per location. 

• Petersfield access hours 
• Alton access hours
• Swindon access hours 

At The Place 4 Self Storage, we make storing your belongings simple, secure, and hassle-free. Here’s how our process works:

1. Choose Your Unit: We offer a range of unit sizes to suit different needs, whether you’re storing a few boxes, large furniture, or business stock. Our team is available to help you select the right size. You can also use our handy car space calculator to work out what size unit you may need.
2. Move In: Once you’ve chosen your unit, you can bring your items to our facility. We have easy access and trolleys to make moving in as smooth as possible. Some of our units even have drive-up access for added convenience.
3. Access Your Unit: With 24-hour access (if applicable), you can retrieve or store items whenever you need. Our facility is secure, with Bluetooth access, ensuring your belongings are safe yet easily accessible.
4. Pay as You Go: Our flexible, affordable plans mean you can store your items for as long as you need, whether short-term or long-term.
5. Secure Storage: We prioritise security, with CCTV monitoring, individual locks, and secure entry systems. Your items are stored in a clean, well-maintained environment, giving you peace of mind.

Paying for your storage with The Place 4 Self Storage is simple and flexible. We offer several convenient payment options to suit your preferences.

• Monthly Billing: Our storage plans operate on a rolling monthly basis, so you only pay for the time you need. There’s no long-term commitment required, and you can adjust your storage term as your needs change.
• Card Payment: To make things easy, you can arrange for automatic payments with your debit or credit card. This ensures that your payments are processed seamlessly each month.
• Online Payment Portal: We also provide an online payment portal, allowing you to manage and make payments from the comfort of your home or on the go. You’ll have complete control over your account.
• In-Person Payments: If you prefer, you can make payments in person at our facility. Our friendly staff are always on hand to assist with any payment queries during our reception opening times

You can visit your unit between 7am and 10pm Monday to Sunday. Reception opening hours are Mon to Fri 8:30am - 5:30pm / Sat 9am - 12:30pm.

People can access on bank holidays but we won’t be staffing those days

Yes, parking is available at all our locations allowing you to access your storage units with ease.

Yes, trolleys are available at each of our stores.

All our stores are fully disabled access friendly

All our stores have free wi-fi throughout the storage areas.

All of our stores have customer toilets available.

We are happy to have dogs accompany people when visiting reception to make an enquiry but no dogs on site otherwise except guide dogs.

Our website features helpful tips on what any of our units typical can accommodate. We also have our helpful car calculator tool on the website where if you know roughly the number of trips you will be making in your car, will give you a guide as to the likely size of unit you will require. Or you can pop into the store during our opening hours when our helpful and friendly staff can discuss your requirements with you, show you some different sized units and generally help you make the right choice of unit.

Most of our storage units are 2.4m high but this might vary depending on where in the building the unit is located.

No but our store staff will be able to help you buy racking for your unit if needed.

Please discuss this with your store manager to see if this can be possible to arrange.

No you can store items loose if need be but we advise to use boxes to maximise the efficiency of your storage unit. A full range of packing materials and boxes are available to buy in our receptions or via our online box shops. 

Yes, you can store a fridge or freezer with The Place, provided a few guidelines are followed to ensure the safety and cleanliness of your unit and other stored items.

Before storing, please ensure that:

1. The Appliance is Fully Defrosted and Cleaned: It’s essential to defrost and thoroughly clean your fridge or freezer to prevent any mould, odours, or water leakage while in storage.
2. The Doors Are Left Slightly Ajar: To allow ventilation and prevent any stale odours, it’s recommended to keep the doors slightly open. You can secure them in this position using a piece of tape or a small wedge.
3. No Items Are Left Inside: For hygiene and safety, please empty the fridge or freezer entirely before storage.

Storing a fridge or freezer is a straightforward process with these precautions, ensuring that your appliance remains in good condition and the storage unit remains fresh and secure. If you have any questions about storing specific items, our team is here to help!

Sorry, no vehicles can be stored.

Generally, The Place 4 Self Storage does not allow the storage of perishable food and drink items, as these can spoil, attract pests, and compromise the cleanliness and safety of the facility. Storing perishable items like fresh produce, dairy, and opened food packages is not permitted for these reasons.

However, you may be able to store non-perishable, sealed items such as canned goods or bottled drinks, provided they are securely packaged and have a long shelf life. If you're considering storing food or drink items, please contact our friendly team to discuss your specific needs and ensure they comply with our guidelines.

At The Place 4 Self Storage, we prioritise the safety, cleanliness, and security of our facility, so there are certain restrictions on what items can be stored. To ensure a safe environment for all customers, we ask that you avoid storing the following:

1. Perishable Items: Food and other perishable goods that can spoil, attract pests, or create odours are not allowed. Only sealed, non-perishable items may be permitted with prior approval.
2. Hazardous Materials: Items that are flammable, explosive, toxic, or hazardous are strictly prohibited. This includes petrol, paint, fireworks, chemicals, gas canisters, and similar items. Lithium batteries are strictly prohibited.
3. Illegal or Stolen Goods: Storing any illegal items, including drugs, firearms, or stolen property, is strictly prohibited by law and by our facility’s policy.
4. Living Things: Animals, plants, and any other living organisms cannot be stored in our units, as these require care and specific conditions that a storage unit cannot provide.
5. No vehicle storage
6. Strong Odours: Items that produce strong or unpleasant odours should be avoided, as these can affect neighbouring units.

If you’re ever unsure whether an item is permitted, our team is here to help clarify our guidelines and ensure your storage experience is safe and compliant. We’re committed to providing a secure and comfortable storage environment for all our customers.

Yes, you can store items on behalf of someone else at The Place 4 Self Storage, but there are a few guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Account Holder Responsibility: The person who signs the storage agreement (the account holder) is legally responsible for the items stored in the unit. This includes ensuring that stored items comply with our guidelines and restrictions, regardless of ownership.
2. Access and Security: Only the account holder and any authorised individuals listed on the agreement will have access to the unit. If you’re storing items for someone else, make sure any access arrangements are clarified at the time of rental.
3. Insurance and Liability: We recommend that all items stored are insured, as the account holder will be responsible for the contents. It’s a good idea to confirm whether the owner of the items has adequate insurance cover, or you may consider adding cover through our insurance options.
4. Compliance with Storage Restrictions: As with all storage, items stored on behalf of others must adhere to our restrictions on hazardous materials, perishables, and prohibited items.

Yes, with The Place 4 Self Storage, you have the flexibility to add or remove items from your unit whenever you need. Our storage solution is designed to give you convenient access to your belongings throughout your rental period.

No, sleeping or living in a storage unit at The Place 4 Self Storage is strictly prohibited. Storage units are designed solely for the purpose of storing belongings and are not equipped with the necessary facilities for habitation, such as heating, ventilation, or sanitation. For health, safety, and legal reasons, staying overnight or using the unit as a living space is not allowed.

Our facility is committed to providing a secure and compliant environment for all customers, and we ask that units are only used for their intended purpose: safe, secure storage. If you have any questions about the permitted uses of your unit, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

All of the storage units at the Place have their own individual alarm which is activated and deactivated via our security app on your mobile phone or via a secure PIN code. Additionally, all the units require a padlock to secure them and these are available to buy from our merchandising shop in reception. For container units and business units there is also the option of renting a heavy duty Bluetooth controlled padlock which is ideal when multiple people need access to a unit.

Yes, The Place 4 Self Storage is equipped with on-site CCTV to provide continuous monitoring and enhance the security of our facility. Our CCTV cameras cover key areas, including entrances, exits, and loading areas, ensuring that we maintain a safe and secure environment for all stored items.

Our CCTV system operates 24/7, and footage is regularly monitored and recorded to deter any unauthorised access or suspicious activity. This added layer of security helps give our customers peace of mind, knowing their belongings are under constant surveillance.

A padlock is an essential security measure for your storage unit at The Place 4 Self Storage. While our facility is equipped with CCTV, secure access controls, and other security features, a padlock provides an additional layer of protection specifically for your unit.

Padlocks are available to purchase at reception or through our online box shop where a range is available.

If you lose your padlock key or forget your PIN please speck to the store staff who will be able assist you in changing the padlock or getting a new PIN.

At The Place 4 Self Storage, we ask for a Next of Kin contact as an additional point of communication. This person is someone we can contact in case of an emergency or if we’re unable to reach you for any important matters related to your storage unit.

No, at The Place 4 Self Storage, only you and any authorised individuals you’ve specified have access to your unit. We prioritise privacy and security, so even our staff cannot enter your unit without your permission, except in rare circumstances that require emergency access.

Yes and we will record this on your storage agreement

The Place subscribes to Cyber Essentials to protect against cyber attacks.

Storage costs vary depending on the unit size, location and duration of rental. See costs via our booking system or get in contact with us to discuss your storage needs.

Contents Protection offers valuable peace of mind, knowing your belongings are financially safeguarded while stored at The Place 4 Self Storage. Although we prioritise security and have extensive safety measures in place, unforeseen incidents, such as natural events or rare accidents, can occasionally happen. With Contents Protection, you’re covered in the unlikely event of damage or loss, ensuring you’re not left facing unexpected costs to replace your items.

In addition, having Contents Protection allows you to store with confidence, knowing your belongings are protected against risks beyond your control. Many customers find it reassuring, and we’re happy to offer flexible coverage options to suit different needs and values. For any questions about the coverage or how to set it up, our team is here to help!

The insurance protection is shown separately on your quote

We will price match any quote from a self storage provider

Paying for your storage unit at The Place 4 Self Storage is straightforward and flexible. We offer a variety of payment methods to make managing your account as convenient as possible. You can choose to pay by debit or credit card, or make payments through our online portal. This flexibility ensures you can manage your payments in a way that suits you best.

If you prefer, you can also make payments in person at our facility, where our team is always available to assist with any billing queries. Whatever option you choose, we aim to make the process simple and secure, so you can focus on storing with confidence.

No

The costs of any one store are different to another and therefore the costs can vary depending upon the location

Paying in advance for storage is a standard practice that ensures your unit is reserved and available for you throughout your rental period. It also helps streamline billing and prevents any disruptions in access to your storage unit, as payments are already settled before each month begins. This approach benefits both you and the storage facility, providing clear payment terms and ensuring secure, uninterrupted storage for your belongings.

At The Place 4 Self Storage, paying in advance helps us maintain a seamless service, giving you peace of mind that your items are stored without any risk of unpaid fees affecting access. If you have any questions about payment terms or need assistance setting up your account, our team is here to assist!

No.

No.

Yes if you are storing for your business we will provide you with VAT invoice.

Please speak to our store staff for discounts on longer periods paid in advance.

No.

Yes a 10% discount is available on proof of a valid NUS card. Find out more about student storage.

No, we do not charge business rates.

If you miss a payment we will contact you to remind you. If you have any difficulty making a payment please speak to our store staff who will be able to assist you.

Yes, at The Place 4 Self Storage, Contents Protection is typically required to ensure that all stored items are protected against unexpected events, such as fire, flood, or theft. While we have strong security measures in place, Contents Protection provides added financial security for your belongings, giving you peace of mind.

The minimum contents protection is [£4000] and this will be arranged for you when you book the unit.

Contents Protection is typically calculated based on the value of the items you plan to store. When setting up your storage, you’ll be asked to estimate the total replacement value of your belongings, which helps determine the appropriate level of coverage. This means that the higher the declared value of your items, the more the Contents Protection may cost.

You can arrange insurance cover with another provider but you will need to demonstrate that the required perils are adequately covered. This proof of cover will need to provided at the time of signing up for the unit.

Yes, this is all part of the signing up procedure.

Yes, in many cases, you can move into your storage unit on the same day! At The Place 4 Self Storage, we strive to make the process quick and convenient, so if there’s availability, we can usually arrange for you to move in immediately.

The minimum storage term is one week.

It is advisable to book your storage unit once you know what size you require to ensure that it is ready fro you when you want to move in.

If you need to cancel your reserved storage space at The Place 4 Self Storage, simply get in touch with our team as soon as possible. You can call or email us to let us know about your cancellation, and we’ll guide you through any necessary steps.

You can manage your storage unit via your customer log in which is provided to you when you sign up or by coming into the store during opening hours when our staff will be able to assist you.

Yes, at The Place 4 Self Storage, we require a simple storage agreement to be signed before you move in. This contract outlines the terms of your rental, including access, payment, and storage guidelines, ensuring that both you and our facility have a clear understanding of the arrangement.

No. The contract is in your name and you are confirming that the possessions in the unit are yours.

If on the day of moving in you aera unable to be there then another party can sign the agreement provided they have the required ID to do so.

To set up your storage contract with The Place 4 Self Storage, personal storage customers are typically required to provide one form of photographic identification, such as a passport or driver’s licence, along with proof of address, like a recent utility bill or bank statement.

These documents help verify your identity and ensure the security of all our customers. If you’re unsure which documents to bring or have any questions about the process, our team will be happy to guide you through the requirements.

As a business storage customer with The Place 4 Self Storage, you’ll need to provide identification both for the business and the individual signing the contract. Typically, this includes a company registration document or proof of the business’s address, along with photographic ID for the authorised signatory, such as a passport or driver’s licence.

These documents help us verify the legitimacy of the business and the identity of the account holder, ensuring a secure and compliant setup. If you have any questions about acceptable forms of ID or the documentation process, our team is here to assist you.

‘Checking in’ refers to the process of officially starting your storage rental at The Place 4 Self Storage. This includes completing any final paperwork, verifying your identification, and setting up access to your storage unit. During check-in, our team will also walk you through important information about facility access, security procedures, and unit guidelines to ensure you’re fully prepared to start using your space.

Checking in is a straightforward process designed to help you settle in and feel confident about using your storage unit. If you have any questions during check-in, our team will be on hand to provide support and answer any queries.

No, you’re not required to use boxes from The Place 4 Self Storage. You’re welcome to bring your own boxes and packing materials to store your belongings. However, we do offer a range of high-quality, durable boxes and packing supplies designed specifically for storage, which can help keep your items protected and organised. These are available to buy from reception.

Please discuss your requiremnest with store staff who will be able to provide you with any available discounts for bulk purchases or in store special deals.

No, our packaging is available to buy from reception in all locations and you do not need to be a customer to purchase from us.

Yes, at The Place 4 Self Storage, we offer a wide selection of boxes, packing materials, and padlocks to help you prepare and secure your belongings. Our packing supplies include durable boxes in various sizes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and protective covers—all designed to keep your items safe in storage.

Any unopened items will be refunded 14 days from purchase with a valid receipt

Please bring any items back to the store reception.

No but our store staff will be able to provide you with details of local companies offering this service.

No but our store staff will be able to provide you with details of local companies offering this service.

Yes provided you have signed your storage agreement.

As long as you have signed your storage agreement you can provide access to a removal company to deliver your good to the unit.

No but our store staff will be able to provide you with details of local companies offering this service.

Yes we will accept deliveries for you provided you have authorised us to do so. We will then hold your delivery for you for 24 hours.

No. If you require any services such as this please discuss with the store staff before vacating your unit. Any items left behind will be charged for if we need to dispose of them.

If you don’t provide the required notice before ending your storage rental at The Place 4 Self Storage, you may still be liable for the rental fees for the next billing period. Notice periods allow us to manage space availability and assist other customers in planning their storage needs. Without notice, we won’t have a record of your intended move-out date, which may result in additional charges.

To avoid any unexpected fees, please check your contract for the specific notice period required and contact us when you’re ready to vacate your unit. Our team is happy to guide you through the process to ensure a smooth transition.

When you’re ready to move out of your storage unit at The Place 4 Self Storage, simply let us know in advance, following the notice period outlined in your contract. This allows us to prepare for your move-out and ensure a smooth process.

On your move-out day, make sure to empty your unit completely and leave it clean and tidy. Once you’ve removed all your belongings, return your access key or code (if applicable) to our team, and we’ll complete a final check of the unit. After that, we’ll close out your account and handle any final billing.

If you have any questions or need assistance during the move-out process, our team is here to help make everything as straightforward as possible.

To give notice to move out of your storage unit at The Place 4 Self Storage, simply contact our team. You can give notice by phone, email, or in person at our facility. We’ll confirm your intended move-out date and guide you through any necessary steps to ensure a smooth process.

Be sure to check your contract for the required notice period, as this will ensure you’re not charged for any additional time beyond your intended move-out date. If you have any questions about the notice process or specific requirements, our team is here to assist and make your move-out as easy as possible.

Yes, when you’re ready to move out of your storage unit at The Place 4 Self Storage, we ask that you leave the unit clean, empty, and in the same condition as when you moved in. This means removing all items, sweeping out any debris, and ensuring the space is tidy for the next customer.

Leaving your unit clean and empty helps us maintain a high standard across the facility and allows for a smooth transition for future customers.

Please speak to our store staff who will be able to discuss multi- site options with you.

No, storage units at The Place 4 Self Storage are intended solely for the storage of goods and personal belongings. Operating a business or working directly from your storage unit is not permitted, as the facility is not equipped to support office or commercial activities, such as client meetings, manufacturing, or on-site work.

Our focus is on providing a safe, secure, and accessible environment for storing items. If you need assistance with business storage, such as storing inventory or documents, we’re happy to help find a solution that meets your needs within our guidelines. For any questions, feel free to reach out to our team.

In addition to self storage solutions, we offer office space at a number of our locations. Please enquire directly with us to discuss your needs.

Yes, office space is available to rent at several of our locations. Office space varies in size at each of our locations, and availability will vary. Please contact us directly for office space enquiries.

You can access your storage unit outside of office hours, provided you are visiting during your location's permitted access hours. Your access PIN can be found in your welcome email. Check your local location page for current access hours.

First, check that you are using the correct PIN and entering it in the correct format: press *, enter your PIN, then press #. You can use your PIN on the yellow keypad boxes around the facility. If you're still having problems, see our troubleshooting guide or contact the team for help.

Check that you are entering the correct PIN using * + PIN + #, then try the yellow keypad again. If you're using the Storage Genie app, make sure you're close to the keypad and allow a few seconds for the Bluetooth connection.

First, check that you're using the correct PIN and have entered it correctly. If you're using the Storage Genie app, move closer to the yellow keypad and wait a few seconds for the Bluetooth connection. Also check that nothing is obstructing the door. Please don't attempt to force or manually operate the roller shutter. For more help, see our troubleshooting guide.

Don't worry, you can still exit the facility. Use your PIN on the yellow keypad inside the roller shutter or press the green button on the post underneath the keypad.

The roller shutter closes automatically after 30 seconds of inactivity as part of our security measures. If you're having trouble opening it again, check your PIN or Storage Genie app connection and make sure nothing is obstructing the door.

Once you've downloaded the Storage Genie app, select Get Started and search for The Place 4 Self Storage. Add your branch, then enter your surname or company name, unit number and PIN. The app can then be used to open access points from your phone when you're close to a yellow keypad.

The app can take a few seconds to establish a Bluetooth connection. If you have trouble setting it up, you can continue to use your PIN. For step-by-step instructions, see our troubleshooting guide.

Floor plans are available throughout the facility to help you find your unit. You'll find a floor plan on each floor by the lift, as well as at other points around the corridors. Use these to find your unit number and plan your route.

If your storage unit isn't on the ground floor, you can use the large goods lift just inside the roller shutter entrance. Press and hold the button for the direction you want to travel until the lift stops on its own.

Yes. Trolleys and pallet trucks are available for customers to use and are usually located just inside the roller shutter entrance.

You can move into your unit outside office hours, provided you're visiting during your location's access hours. Your unit will be left unlocked for you on your move-in date. You'll need to bring your own padlock to secure it once you've finished moving in.

If you need a padlock, these can be purchased from reception or through our online box shop. For more information about accessing the facility, see our troubleshooting guide.

Before leaving, make sure your unit is completely empty, clean, tidy and unlocked. Once you've moved out, contact The Place by phone or email to confirm your move-out date.

For more information about common access issues and using the facilities, please see our troubleshooting guide.