Your daughter and her buddies finally got a band together. Maybe they've even played a few gigs, but they need to rehearse, and you realize that finding a space where countless hours of hard-rocking noise is welcomed is hard to come by. Your neighbors have made it clear, they won't allow it on your block.
Storage units may be an option, but artists need to be aware of the limitations and regulations that define how this space can be used. Not all facilities will allow on-site jam sessions. Check with management first. If they allow it, will neighbors complain, or is the facility private enough to offer creative freedom for your screaming guitar without the nuisance of police intervention? If the facility's management allows you to rehearse there, will your budding songstress be surrounded by a lot of other musicians taking advantage of the policy? Visit the place to see if you want your daughter hanging out with the people who rehearse there. Find out if the building has been coded by the city or county as rehearsal space or if it would be unsafe for anyone to spend extended amounts of time there.
Ideally, look for a professionally run rehearsal facility where management clearly understands the unique needs of musicians. Storage units should be overseen by professionals. Carefully look through the facility. Are alarm systems manned by professionals who will take immediate action? Is the security guard half-asleep, or could he effectively stop a crime in progress. Is the owner a buddy who would rather join the music than stand up to those engaged in inappropriate behavior, or is he absent when he should be on duty?
If you are going to store your musical equipment in the storage unit, here are a few tips:
Whether the rehearsal space is for your teenager or for you, carefully choose a location to practice that is safe and approved for use as a rehearsal facility. Look for management that understands your needs and takes pride in their professionalism.
The advice on this website is provided as a courtesy for informational purposes only. "Storage Tips" are offered as-is and no warranty is expressed or implied. For more information, see StorageFront's Terms and Conditions.