Key topics renters should understand
The rental agreement matters
The agreement sets the renter’s duties, charges, facility rules, contact information, and other terms alongside the Virginia Self-Service Storage Act. Read the current agreement before completing a rental.
Stored property may secure unpaid charges
Virginia Code § 55.1-2901 establishes an owner’s lien on personal property stored within a leased space for rent and other specified charges and expenses.
Default triggers a defined notice process
Virginia Code § 55.1-2902 describes default notices, the right to deny access during default, a further verified notice after ten days, required notice contents, and the public-auction process.
Redemption is available before auction
Before a public auction, the occupant may pay the amount necessary to satisfy the lien and redeem the personal property under § 55.1-2902.
Care and control generally remain with the occupant
Unless the rental agreement specifically says otherwise, § 55.1-2904 places exclusive care, custody, and control of stored personal property with the occupant.
Abandoned property has a separate rule
The 2026 Virginia provision in § 55.1-2903.1 addresses property left after termination or nonrenewal. Monetary default remains subject to the lien-enforcement provisions instead.
Renter recordkeeping checklist
- Keep your mailing address, email address, and telephone number current with the facility.
- Read the rental agreement, fee schedule, prohibited-items rules, access terms, and insurance or protection requirements.
- Pay by the due date and contact the facility promptly if an account notice appears incorrect.
- Do not ignore a default, termination, nonrenewal, lien, auction, towing, or abandoned-property notice.
- Keep an inventory and photographs of stored property and retain your rental and payment records.
- Ask a licensed Virginia attorney about a specific dispute or deadline.