Temporary storage containers are an efficient way of storing your home’s appliances, furniture and other belongings. They’re the perfect alternative to self-storage units, and the even cooler thing about them is how flexible they are. Relocating? Check. Renovating? Also check. Anything else under the sun that requires a lot of storage? Yup, of course! There are just so many ways you can use them.
However, it’s important to remember that you may need homeowners association (HOA) approval to begin renting a storage container. If it’s your first time getting HOA approval for a temporary storage container, this guide covers what you need to know to ensure a smooth approval process and the steps to getting your container.
Things to Know Before Getting HOA Approval for Your Storage Container
Before getting HOA approval for your storage container, keep these things in mind for a stress-free approval experience:
1. Check for Explicit Bans in Your HOA
Check if your chosen storage container meets HOA compliance and requirements. Don’t forget to verify whether specific types of materials, such as metal, are allowed. You can usually find these rules in your HOA’s covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs), a document that outlines the do’s and don’ts of being a part of your neighborhood.
2. Check for Space and Clearance
Measure the total space and clearance of your chosen placement area, and ensure that they align with the container you want. For 10′, 15′ and 20′ containers, Pro Box Portable Storage recommends a straight clearance of at least 60 feet for delivery and pick up. For bigger containers, such as the 25′ and 40′ units, we advise a clearance of at least 120 feet.
3. Check for Your Timeline
Plan a timeline of events on your calendar to get a clearer picture of where you are in the process. Since getting HOA approval for your storage container can take 30 to 60 days to process, submitting your proposal early helps smooth out any unexpected delays and bumps along the way.
Steps to Get a Storage Container
Follow these steps to get temporary storage for your home:
1. Review Your HOA’s Current Rules
Your HOA’s CC&Rs will contain the specific rules you need to know about placing a storage container in your neighborhood. Review this document and focus on the HOA rules for temporary storage solutions, portable storage units or sheds, which provide guidelines for the following:
- Color restrictions: Some HOAs require containers to be in neutral tones like gray, white or tan to match the colors of your house’s siding, trim or roof.
- Storage material and type: Confirm whether approved materials include common ones like metal, wood or vinyl.
- Duration and limits: For temporary storage units, the typical time frame is three to seven days.
If there are any specifics that your HOA rules don’t address, contact your HOA manager for clarification. You can also attend your regular HOA meetings to raise any questions you have in person.
If you find any of the rules unreasonable, you can refer to the Community Associations Institute for resources on national standards for how HOAs should operate fairly.
2. Prepare and Submit a Detailed ARC Proposal
Once you’re certain that your storage container meets HOA compliance and requirements, it’s time to prepare and submit a detailed proposal to your HOA’s architectural review committee (ARC). You’ll want to submit your request at least two to three weeks before you need your storage container. While most HOAs provide an online form to fill out, some may provide one through your management company. Most proposals should include:
- The container’s description: Specify its size, dimensions, purpose, color, material, your chosen storage provider and any other relevant information. You may also include a photo of your container.
- The delivery date: Specify the time and date of your container’s delivery and removal. To get fast approval, be specific about this and provide hard start and end dates rather than a vague “two weeks from now” timeline.
- A diagram of the placement area: Include a diagram or illustration showing where the container will be placed on your property. This is especially important if you plan to put it on the street, as it now involves traffic safety and “right-of-way.”
Do note that while these are the necessities for submitting an ARC proposal, your HOA may have additional requirements. Be sure to consult your HOA manager or someone from ARC for further clarification on the proposal requirements.
Once everything looks good and complete, submit your request.
3. Contact Your Storage Provider
After 30 to 60 days, you should have HOA approval for a temporary storage container. Once you have approval, contact your storage provider and let them know your chosen delivery and removal dates, placement restrictions and any other specifics your HOA manager has shared with you.
It’s also a good idea to let your storage provider know about the pavement conditions in your neighborhood and the current state of your driveway. For example, if you have a steep incline at your neighborhood’s entrance or low-hanging power lines near your home, your provider needs to know so they can prepare their delivery vehicle for your specific situation in advance.
4. Prepare for Delivery
Before your storage container arrives, do the following preparations to make sure that the drop-off goes smoothly:
- Clear your street and driveway: Regardless of where you’re placing your container, clear both your street and driveway of any obstacles, obstructions, objects and dirt to assure a safe and quick delivery.
- Check leveling on-site: Ensure your placement area is level. Placing a container on an unleveled surface will cause the doors to not open or close properly. If you do not have a level surface available, your Pro Box driver can place blocks to level the container for you.
- Let your neighbors know: To avoid surprising your neighbors about your container, let them know in advance about its delivery to avoid complaints to the HOA and address any potential concerns about street visibility or parking.
- Keep your phone handy: Turn up the volume and keep it in your hand or pocket within hours of your delivery time to avoid delays or issues.
As long as you follow these steps, you can trust Pro Box Portable Storage to bring you a timely and stress-free delivery experience.
Why Choose Pro Box Portable Storage for an HOA-Friendly Experience
When renting a storage container, it’s important to choose a storage provider that understands your needs. If you’re looking for a provider who offers clear communication, a wide variety of container sizes and effortless delivery to your home, you’ve got us — Pro Box Portable Storage.
Whether you’re relocating or renovating, Pro Box Portable Storage has got you covered. With our patented Pro Vault Locking System® that keeps your items secure, our competitive and 100% transparent pricing with no sneaky admin or “miscellaneous” fees, and speedy service, you’re set up for a straightforward renting experience.
If you’re near any of our seven Southwestern U.S. locations, then please contact us for a free quote or call us at 844-564-2774 for storage container rentals.
