How to Deal With Storage Units

Many people have storage units that family members do not know about. Check bank and credit card statements for recurring monthly charges to storage companies — common operators include Public Storage, Extra Space Storage, CubeSmart, Life Storage, and U-Haul. Also search the deceased's email for "storage" to find confirmation emails or payment receipts. Check the deceased's keys for any that might belong to a storage unit padlock.

Once you locate any storage units, contact the storage facility with a death certificate and letters testamentary to gain access. Visit the unit and inventory the contents before deciding what to do. Storage units may contain anything from seasonal decorations to valuable antiques, important documents, or family heirlooms. Photograph everything before removing or disposing of items.

If you decide to empty the unit, you have several options for the contents: distribute items to family members, sell valuable items (estate sales, consignment shops, or online marketplaces), donate to charity (request a receipt for the estate tax deduction), or dispose of the remainder. If you need time to sort through the contents, keep the unit rented — but be aware that storage typically costs $50 to $300 per month depending on size and location. If the rent goes unpaid, storage facilities have the legal right to auction the contents after a notice period (typically 30 to 90 days depending on the state). Cancel the autopay on the deceased's account and set up payment from the estate account to prevent accidental loss.