Storage Solutions Guide

Storage Solutions During Home Renovation: Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about protecting and storing your belongings during building work, extensions, and home improvements

August 2024 10 min read Storage Solutions

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Storage During Home Renovation Guide

Home renovations are exciting – but they also create chaos. Dust, debris, builders traipsing through, and the risk of damage to your furniture and belongings make storage during renovation not just convenient, but often essential.

Whether you're extending your kitchen, converting your loft, or undertaking a full house refurbishment, this guide will help you decide what to store, where to store it, and how to protect your possessions during building work.

Quick Facts About Renovation Storage

68%
Of renovators experience damage to belongings left on-site
£80-150
Monthly cost for typical household storage unit
3-6
Average months needed for major renovations

Why Storage During Renovation is Essential

Protection from Damage

Building work creates dust that penetrates everywhere, paint splashes, accidental knocks, and potential water damage. Quality furniture, electronics, and valuables are at serious risk.

Better Access for Builders

Empty rooms allow builders to work faster and more efficiently. No furniture to work around means the job gets done quicker and potentially cheaper.

Livable Space While Work Continues

If you're living in the property during renovation, storing non-essential items creates more breathing room and reduces stress in an already disruptive situation.

Insurance Requirements

Some home insurance policies require valuable items to be stored off-site during major building work, or they won't cover damage caused by renovations.

What Should You Store During Renovation?

Definitely Store

  • Upholstered furniture (sofas, armchairs)
  • Electronics and appliances
  • Valuable artwork and antiques
  • Important documents and photos
  • Clothes and textiles
  • Children's toys and books
  • Mattresses and bedding
  • Kitchen equipment during kitchen reno

Consider Storing

  • Dining tables and chairs
  • Wardrobes and chest of drawers
  • Rugs and carpets
  • Mirrors and decorative items
  • Lighting fixtures (if removing)
  • Garden furniture (if exterior work)
  • Seasonal items you won't need
  • Sports equipment and hobbies

Storage Options: Which is Right for You?

Self-Storage Units

Professional storage facilities with units in various sizes. The most popular choice for renovation storage.

✓ Advantages

  • • Flexible contract lengths
  • • 24/7 access at most facilities
  • • Climate-controlled options available
  • • Secure with CCTV and alarms
  • • Insurance available

✗ Considerations

  • • Monthly rental costs
  • • You load and unload yourself
  • • May need van rental
  • • Travel time to access items

Typical Costs: 50 sq ft (small): £80-100/month | 100 sq ft (medium): £120-150/month | 150 sq ft (large): £170-220/month

Mobile Storage Containers

Company delivers container to your home, you fill it, they collect and store it at their facility.

✓ Advantages

  • • Convenient - no driving to storage
  • • Load at your own pace
  • • Can be delivered back when needed
  • • Good for complete house renos

✗ Considerations

  • • Limited access while in storage
  • • Need driveway space temporarily
  • • Delivery/collection fees
  • • Weather exposure during loading

Typical Costs: £150-250/month including delivery and collection

On-Site Storage

Keeping items in an unused room, garage, or shed covered with protective sheeting.

✓ Advantages

  • • No rental costs
  • • Easy access anytime
  • • No transportation needed
  • • Suitable for short renovations

✗ Considerations

  • • Risk of dust and damage
  • • Takes up needed space
  • • May hinder builder access
  • • Not suitable for major work

⚠️ Only recommended for: Minor renovations in distant rooms, or if you have a separate outbuilding well away from work areas.

Finding Storage in Surrey & London

Finding the right storage facility near you is crucial for convenience and cost. We've partnered with trusted storage providers across Surrey and London to make your search easier.

Clear Space Team Storage Solutions

We've partnered with Big Yellow Self Storage and other premium facilities across Surrey to offer you:

Exclusive member discounts
Combined clearance & storage service
Packing materials supplied
Secure, climate-controlled units
View Storage Solutions

Need Help Finding Storage Facilities?

We maintain a comprehensive directory of storage facilities across Surrey and London with detailed information on locations, sizes, and pricing.

Browse Storage Facilities Directory

Packing and Protection Tips

Use Quality Boxes

Invest in sturdy, uniform boxes. Double-wall boxes for heavy items. Label everything clearly with contents and room.

Wrap Furniture

Use furniture blankets, bubble wrap, or specialist covers. Protect corners and glass surfaces. Remove legs if possible.

Climate Control

Choose climate-controlled storage for sensitive items like leather, wood furniture, electronics, artwork, and documents.

Stack Smart

Heavy items at bottom, lighter on top. Leave walkway for access. Don't stack too high - think stability and safety.

Create Inventory

Photograph valuable items. Keep detailed list of what's stored. Makes insurance claims easier if needed.

Avoid Moisture

Use silica gel packets. Don't store items in plastic bags. Raise items off floor on pallets. Check for damp regularly.

Need Help with Renovation Storage?

Clear Space Team can help you plan, pack, and move items to storage - plus we have partnerships with premium storage facilities across Surrey.