FAQ | AAA Self-Storage in Topeka, KSAAA Self Storage
Frequently Asked Questions

 

Need answers to your specific questions? Look no further! We’ve answered some of our most frequently asked questions to assist you in making the best choice for your storage needs. If we haven’t answered your question, please don’t hesitate to contact us via our contact us page or call us at 785-272-3444. We welcome your questions.

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General:

What hours can I get to my storage unit?

You have access to your storage unit 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I know you said 24/7, but does that include holidays?

Of course! You have access to your unit when it is convenient for you. So when “Santa’s helper” needs to retrieve hidden gifts no matter how late at night, or you need those extra chairs and table during family get-togethers, you may do so.

What are your office hours?

We are open: Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Do I need a climate-controlled unit or a non-climate controlled unit?

That depends on what you are storing. A good rule of thumb is if you leave it outside or store it in the garage, it can be stored in a non-climate controlled unit. Your vehicles, lawn equipment or tools will be fine in a non-climate controlled unit, while furniture and fabrics do best in climate control.

What size of unit do you recommend?

Once we know what you are storing, we can estimate what size would best meet your needs. We have a few tips that can help put the unit sizes into perspective: a 5’ x 5’ is a little larger than a coat closet, and you can fit a car in a 10’ x 20’ unit. When considering what size works best for you, we do recommend you leave a path from the front of the unit to the back for easy access to all your property.

Can I look at a few units before I sign up for one to make sure I get the right size?

We always recommend you look at the unit before you rent it. Please keep in mind, an empty unit always looks larger than it actually is. A great rule of thumb is a 5’ x 5’ is a little larger than a coat closet.

How much does a storage unit cost?

The monthly rent depends on the size of the unit as well as the type of unit; climate control vs. non climate control. Please call us at 785-272-3444 to check on price and availability or fill out a request information form on our contact page.

Can I grant other people access to my storage unit?

While it is always nice to have family and friends help you move in or out, guests must always be accompanied by the person(s) who signed the lease when on our property. The best way to keep your belongings safe is when you are the only one with the gate access code and key; therefore, we do not permit you to give other people your gate access code unless you add them to your lease first.

Will you sell or give out my personal information?

No, we do not sell your name or any of your personal information to other companies. In addition, we will not give out your information to any individual unless we have written authorization from you to do so. At any time, you may provide us with alternate contact information. A great example would be your next of kin who you want to have access to your unit should an emergency arise.

What security features do you offer?

The perimeter of our property is fenced in with a computerized access gate. The property is paved and lit. We have 24-hour camera surveillance and our manager lives on-site. Many of our climate controlled units have individual door alarms. Since you have your own lock and key, you control the access to your unit.

Do you require a deposit when renting one of your storage units?

A deposit is only required when renting a P.O. Box and is refunded when you move out and return the keys.

What is involved in the renting process?

Once you have selected your unit and signed a contract, you are issued a unique gate access code that’s directly tied to your
unit(s). We will assist you in testing your new code and take you to your unit. TIP: You are welcome to provide your information to us prior to coming into our office. To do so, please use our contact us page so we may provide you with steps on how to reserve a unit.

Do I need to provide a form of ID when renting a unit?

In order to rent a unit from us, you will need to bring a valid state issued pictured driver’s license, state issued picture id or pictured military id.

Do I have to sign a contract when I rent a unit?

Yes. Our contract details out the monthly rent, the date your rent is due each month, the restrictions on what the unit may be used for, what may be stored in the unit, what happens when you pay late, and how you can terminate the contract.

What if I only need the unit for a couple of months?

Our lease is a month to month lease so you can rent the unit for as long or as little as you need it.

What if I rent in the middle of the month?

The date you rent a unit and sign the contract is the date your rent will always be due. For example: if you rent on the 13th, your first month’s rent is due on the 13th and your rent will be due the following month, and every month after, on the 13th.

When do I have to be completely out of my unit to avoid another month’s rent?

You must be out on the last day your rent is paid through. For example if your rent is due on the 13th of each month then you are paid thru the 12th of the following month. Therefore, as long as you move out by the 12th of the month, you will avoid another month’s rent.

What should I do if I lost my key to my unit? Can you let me in?

Your unit is locked with your own lock and key so we do not have access to it. Since we do not permit bolt cutters or grinders on our property, we will cut your lock off in your presence for a $30 fee.

What are my options for paying rent?

We accept cash, check, Visa and MasterCard. Many of our customers enjoy our “No Fees” option by having their rent deducted from their credit card each month. This saves them the hassle of remembering when rent is due or from having to come in to pay.

I am a pharmaceutical rep and receive constant shipments. How can you meet my storage needs?

We supply storage for many pharmaceutical reps. Please contact our office so we can discuss how we can meet your requirements.

Moving In / Storing:

What am I not permitted to store?

You are not permitted to store any “hazardous waste”, “hazardous substances”, perishable goods, carcasses, illegal items, or explosives. Also, we do not permit chemicals of any kind (cleaning supplies, gardening fertilizers, paint or paint thinner), or anything that is flammable or combustible.

What about my car? It has gas which is flammable...

We require any vehicle stored in our buildings be stored with a full tank of gas. Gas is not flammable but the fumes from the gas are, so a full tank means fewer fumes. If you are storing a vehicle for an extended period we recommend that you disconnect the battery and dispose of it properly. A battery in a car stored for a lengthy time can leak and not only cause damage to the car itself but also to the unit’s floor.

Do you always have moving supplies in stock or do I need to call first to check your inventory?

We carry a large supply of boxes, packing supplies, and locks. If you need a large quantity of a particular item it is recommended you contact us so we can be sure we have the amount you need. We would be happy to place a special order for you.

Do you have tips on how to pack my boxes?

Load heavy items like books in small boxes so you can lift the box when it is full. As you are loading the box, periodically lift it to see how heavy it already is. Lightweight items like pillows or lampshades should be put in large boxes. Use glass/dish pack boxes with dividers when packing your everyday plates and glasses as well as your crystal and china. Wrap all fragile items in bubble wrap. While it is tempting to top off an almost full box with an item from another room, don’t. This makes unpacking and putting away a nightmare! Seal the boxes with packing tape designed for storage. Clearly label several sides of the boxes with details of the contents and store the boxes with the labeled side facing out for easy readability.

Do you have tips on how to pack my unit?

Items you do not need access to should be placed in the back of the unit. Invert chairs onto couches to save space. Use your dresser drawers as storage by filling them and then placing them back into your dresser. Store your heavy items like TVs or microwaves on top of sturdy flat surfaces. Do not place boxes or furniture on its side directly on the concrete floor. To provide a barrier between the concrete and your possessions, we recommend that you place pallets or plastic on the floor first.

Why do you recommend I place pallets or plastic under boxes and wood or fabric furniture?

When you place cardboard boxes, wood, or fabric furniture directly on the concrete they tend to wick moisture from the air. Insuring your property is off of the concrete helps control condensation and damage to your property.

Why are mothballs prohibited?

Several reasons: mothballs give off a gaseous odor that is absorbed in fabrics and even in the pores of your wood furniture. Because this odor is not contained only in the unit supplying the mothballs, we prohibit everyone from using them. In addition, some people have an allergy to mothballs.

Do you offer indoor parking spots?

Yes! We offer 10’ x 20’ or larger inside units with roll-top doors to protect your car, truck, SUV, or boat from the Kansas elements.

Do you recommend I carry insurance on the items I store in my unit?

Yes! It is always best to carry insurance on your property. You have insurance on your belongings when it is under the roof of your house or apartment and you should do the same when it is in storage. Check with your current insurance provider to see if you already have coverage.

Do you offer the use of a dolly?

You are welcome to have free use of our dolly to help make moving in quicker. It is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Do I need to give you a key to the lock on my unit?

No! We do not want a key to your unit. You are required to secure your unit with your own lock. For your convenience, we do sell a variety of locks in our office.

P.O. Box:

Do you require a deposit when renting a P.O. Box?

A nominal deposit is required when renting a P.O. Box and is refunded when you return the keys upon moving out.

If my mail or packages requires a signature, will I be able to retrieve them 24/7 as well?

You have access to your P.O. Box and what fits in it 24/7. If your package is too large, you will need to retrieve it during our office hours. We will call you when your large package has arrived so you won’t need to make unnecessary trips.