What Type Of Storage Is Right For You?
Home with RV space
Storing in your driveway
Storing in a "backyard" operation
Open parking on dirt or gravel
Paved & covered parking
Warehouse storage w/valet service
Private RV garage
Home with RV space
The best advantage is the convenience. Most cities ordinances will require that you build a cement pad and install a proper gate and driveway. Cities prefer that the vehicle be screened from view. The typical cost for this can easily reach a $30,000-$100,000 investment. Usually, it takes between 15 and 20 years before you break even on your investment. It's a good idea if you plan to keep your RV that long or you want to make RV parking a selling feature should you decide to sell your home.
Storing in your driveway
This is a good choice if you only need to store for a few days. Any longer than that, it may become risky. Most cities do not allow RV parking in your driveway and may issue you a costly citation, but more importantly, you put your home at risk for burglary. As soon you take your RV out for a trip, everyone knows YOU ARE NOT HOME. Don't count on your neighbor to be your security watchman. Often, it's someone in your neighborhood that is the thief.
Storing in a "backyard" operation
This is a last resort when you have no other alternatives. Typically, these backyard operations have very limited or no security, limited access, no amenities (like a wash area, dump station, etc.), are unlicensed, uninsured, have not met fire safety regulations, and have inexperienced management (if any at all). Arrangements are usually made privately on a handshake and offers you no guaranties of anything, including a space to park when you return. This is not a good choice for long term storage since the operation can be shut down at any time.
Open parking on dirt or gravel
These yards are the residual of an old standard and are well on the way to becoming obsolete. Usually the yards are fenced and gated offering some limited security, daily managed, and have a looser pricing structure. The disadvantages though, are limited or no lighting, no fire safety, spaces are not well defined, dusty in the summer and muddy in the winter. And if the lot is not professionally sprayed regularly, you will have problems with rodents and insects. These lots usually lack wash facilities, dump stations, and other amenities. This type of storage is quite suitable for the older RV that is no longer in use.
Paved and covered parking
Besides the obvious advantage of being cleaner, better organized, and easier to maneuver, other issues become a consideration. Owners/developers have usually invested more time and thought into meeting the needs of RV'ers, which is a real plus since consumers now expect more for their money. These facilities usually offer tighter security with video surveillance and nicer amenities such as wash and dump facilities. You may also notice the improvement in management, a tighter pricing structure and stricter rules. Some even offer services such as repairs and maintenance. Some offer RV supplies.
Covered parking has its own advantages by providing protection from the sun, heat, wind, and rain. Covered spaces usually cost a bit more, but is definitely worth it.
Warehouse storage with valet service
With this type of storage, vehicles are parked tightly into empty warehouses. You will find good security and usually good services along with it. Some RV'ers like the valet service and that they can pay for someone else to wash, wax, and prep their vehicle. Indoor storage provides good protection from the sun, heat wind and rain. Drawbacks include not having personal access to your vehicle, stricter availability hours, and the higher risk of bumps, dents, and dings that naturally occur when maneuvering large vehicles in tight quarters (especially if their drivers are inexperienced). Insurance liability is another consideration. Be sure to ask your insurance if they provide coverage since you will no longer have custody of your vehicle. Also ask the storage business if their insurance covers your vehicle while in storage. Remember, when you hand over your keys you give up custody and control. These operations are typically professionally managed and operated with a small staff. Pricing structure can start to get a little stiff because it's all indoors, and services may or may not be included in the price.
Private Garages
A private garage is your premium choice. These typically have high tech security, are individually alarmed and monitored, have wash and dump facilities, a live-in onsite property manager, daily managed, and offers privacy and the ability to store all your other stuff as well. A word of advice though; before committing to a garage, you should ask to practice parking in one first. Make sure your vehicle fits through the door easily and that you can maneuver the driveways.