Temporary storage of household contents
Temporary storage of household contents: preserving belongings during a move
Temporary storage places belongings outside the home while a property is cleared, sold or prepared for occupation. Following a death, a family may wish to retain furniture and collections while emptying the property. Plan storage as a separate part of the move, identifying the objects, their destination and the checks at handover.
A spare room is not necessarily suitable storage
The Canadian Conservation Institute generally discourages museum storage in attics and basements because of temperature fluctuations, humidity and water risks. Applied to private belongings, the principle is to assess actual conditions. Keep objects above the floor, away from potential leaks and direct heat. A locked storage unit is not automatically climate controlled.
Wood, basketry and other organic materials may be damaged by light, water, pests and inappropriate handling. One storage arrangement cannot suit everything from oil paintings to tools. Particularly fragile, valuable or already damaged objects need individual consideration.
Assess moisture before wrapping
Boxes on cold floors or against external walls can absorb moisture. Sealed packaging does not solve the problem if damp objects are enclosed. Avoid direct contact with cold masonry and inspect stored belongings regularly. Visible mould or new water damage requires separate assessment before affected objects are mixed with undamaged belongings.
Separate retained belongings from items intended for sale
Our practical suggestion for clearance: label packaging with an object number and destination, linked to an object inventory. For example, use separate entries for “retain, storage A” and “for sale, awaiting assessment”. This is a working method, not evidence of legal ownership.
Take dated photographs before packing and on receipt. Record changes in a condition report. Agree in writing who arranges transport and storage, who has access and how release will be authorised. Check insurance coverage with your insurer and the storage provider’s terms.
Next step
If some belongings are to be retained during clearance, explain this when requesting an OBA inspection. Agree the specific services rather than assuming transport or storage is included.
Sources and scope
Canadian Conservation Institute: storage areas, moisture and mould, and wood and basketry. Museum guidance provides preservation principles; labelling and handover arrangements are practical suggestions for private contents.
