According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments respond to a fire every 23 seconds. While most people think of homes or businesses when it comes to fire risks, storage units aren’t off the hook. Items inside can go up in smoke just as fast—and in many cases, without warning.
If you’re renting a storage unit, chances are you’ve packed it with valuable stuff. Furniture, electronics, family keepsakes, or inventory for your business. Now ask yourself—what happens if smoke damages all of it? That’s where smoke insurance for storage units comes in.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Smoke Insurance?
Smoke insurance is exactly what it sounds like. It helps cover damage to your stored items caused by smoke—even if there’s no visible fire. Smoke can ruin electronics, clothing, furniture, paper documents, and more. Sometimes, the unit next to yours might catch fire, and even though your belongings don’t burn, smoke seeps in and leaves a permanent smell—or worse, destroys items completely.
Smoke insurance for storage units adds an extra layer of protection when things go wrong, and they often do without any warning.
Why Storage Units Are at Risk
You might think storage facilities are fireproof. But in reality, most units are made from steel walls with basic ventilation and minimal insulation. That means they’re not immune to fires or smoke damage.
Here are a few real-life scenarios:
● A faulty electrical outlet in a nearby unit starts to smolder.
● Someone stores flammable materials (even though it's usually prohibited).
● A lightning strike or wildfire spreads near the facility.
● A cigarette butt tossed outside causes a small fire that fills nearby units with smoke.
Even if the fire doesn’t reach your storage unit directly, smoke damage can still lead to major loss.
What’s Usually Covered by Storage Units Insurance Coverage?
Most basic storage units insurance coverage handles common risks like theft, water damage, or vandalism. But smoke damage might not be included by default unless you add special protection.
It’s important to check if your policy covers:
If your provider offers an add-on or built-in option for smoke protection, it’s worth taking seriously. It’s a small cost that can save you big down the road.
Items Most Vulnerable to Smoke
Not everything reacts to smoke the same way. Some items are more sensitive and can be permanently ruined even with light exposure:
● Electronics: Smoke particles can corrode internal parts, making gadgets useless.
● Clothing and upholstery: These absorb odors and stains quickly.
● Books and papers: Paper turns yellow and brittle when exposed to smoke.
● Wood furniture: Smoke seeps into the grain and causes long-term odor and discoloration.
Think about what’s inside your storage unit. If any of these items are present, you should definitely consider smoke insurance for storage units.
Is Smoke Insurance Expensive?
The good news is—it’s usually very affordable. Most storage units insurance coverage providers offer smoke protection as a low-cost addition. You’re not paying for full property insurance, just targeted protection for your stored goods.
It’s especially smart for renters in areas with high wildfire risk or industrial zones where accidental fires are more likely. A few extra dollars each month can keep your belongings safe from unexpected smoke-related loss.
How to Get the Right Coverage
Here’s what to do if you want to make sure you’re protected:
The right storage units insurance coverage should give you peace of mind—knowing your things are safe even if the worst happens nearby.
Final Words
Smoke may seem less destructive than fire, but its impact on storage unit contents can be just as severe. It stains, corrodes, and clings to everything from electronics to fabrics. Many renters assume they’re protected under basic policies, but smoke insurance for storage units is often an overlooked yet essential layer of protection. Whether it’s from a nearby wildfire or a small fire in an adjacent unit, smoke damage can be costly and irreversible.
Adding this coverage to your storage units insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing your belongings are covered in ways you might not have considered. It’s a small investment that can prevent big regrets—especially when your valuables are at stake.