By LawInspectsYes, it is usually considered or viewed as an illegal thing to live in a storage unit. And there are many storage unit companies that specifically mention that their units must only be used for storage purposes. But still, let’s talk about it a little more and see what exactly is the problem here with living in a storage unit.
Why Is It Illegal to Live in a Storage Unit?
The law on this, however, is pretty crisp and precise. No storage unit can be lived in. Such spaces are only to be used for storing items, not for cooking, sleeping, or ad-hoc living. The zoning laws separate residential from business areas; storage facilities come under the category of businesses. So I guess you’d say, living there is really a no-no.
Also, you come in with a rental solution, and there is an agreement stating it is only to be used for storage. If you violate the contract, the instant eviction from the storage company could put you out with your belongings on the street. In some jurisdictions, other penalties can include fines or even criminal prosecution.
It’s Not Just Illegal, It’s Extremely Unsafe!
In case you manage to stay unnoticed, staying in the storage unit is indeed unsafe. For one, the storage units lack water, bathrooms, or kitchens. So the first thing to realize is that there is no toilet, sink, or shower! The absence of these amenities means that one has to somehow go out every time to fulfil the basic human need for sustenance and comfort.
Then comes the issue of a highly unregulated temperature inside. There is no heating or air conditioning. So it can become dangerously hot in summers and chilling cold in winters. People may try to plug in heaters or may use candles for warmth, but this could very well set a fire that would not only injure you but also others nearby, too.
And another major danger is that of getting a lock-in or just being stuck inside the unit when someone accidentally locks it from the outside. Many storage units lock on the outside. Should something go wrong while in, you could become trapped inside with no chance of calling for help.
The Legal and Personal Risks You’re Taking
In case you are caught staying in a storage space, you are straightaway thrown out. That means, no notice to the offender, no time to gather belongings, and immediate ejectment. Depending upon the company, the storage space might be emptied of your belongings.
There are no renter protections, as one is considered a “tenant-at-will” or “licensee” as opposed to a legal tenant. The law does not require any notice to quit, and no help in finding alternative accommodation.
In graver cases, a law enforcement agency or a social service might be involved. The presence of children usually makes such a case bigger in civil stature and criminalizes it.
What Are the Better Alternatives?
We get it, sometimes it is really hard for people financially to rent a place, but there are other alternatives you can try, such as:
- Room rentals or shared apartments
- Micro-homes (small, affordable living spaces)
- RVs or campers (legal in some areas with rules to follow)
- Government housing programs like Section 8
- Shelters or nonprofits that help people without stable housing