Do you need a place to store your things temporarily? A self-service storage facility may be the answer to your problems.

Before renting, find out if the facility is:

• Secure from break-ins, vermin, and water damage.
• Heated or ventilated to prevent mildew.

Wisconsin law governs the rights and responsibilities of both the operators and renters of storage facilities. Rental agreements with self-service storage facilities must inform the renter that the owner holds a lien on the property being stored.

If the renter fails to pay rental fees or abandons the property, the owner can recover his or her money by selling the possessions. Renters may be considered in default just seven days after payment is due on the rental agreement.

The owner of the rental facility could lock up the belongings or remove them to another area, while they continue to charge a reasonable rent.

The owner must make two attempts to contact the renter; first by regular mail and then via certified mail. If there is no response, the owner can begin to make plans to sell the property. Of course, renters can get their property back anytime before the sale if overdue rent charges are paid.

Before signing a contract for storage services, read it carefully. Check to see if any insurance is offered on your items while in storage. Make sure you understand and agree to all provisions in the contract, and then be sure your payments are up-to-date.

Self-service storage facilities are not inspected or licensed by the state. Licensed warehouses - which take possession of property - are inspected by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

For more information contact the Division of Consumer Protection at 800-422-7128 or file a complaint.