Bill description: HB 525 would amend self-service storage facility regulations.

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Does it give government any new, additional, or expanded power to prohibit, restrict, or regulate activities in the free market? Conversely, does it eliminate or reduce government intervention in the market? 


HB 525 would allow a self-service-storage rental company to communicate via email or via the postal service. Currently, such businesses must provide a written copy of the rental agreement to a renter immediately upon completion of a contract. HB 525 would allow the company to mail or email this to the renter. Additionally, email or the postal service could be used for all future correspondence.

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However, HB 525 would limit what can be charged as a late fee to 20 dollars or 20 percent of the monthly rent, whichever is greater. This limitation hinders a business’ right to operate as it sees fit.

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HB 525 would also allow storage facilities more flexibility to undertake a lien sale if a renter has failed to pay rent for a period of 45 days. Lien sales of a renter's items, which have been stored at the facility, are allowed after a storage facility has notified a renter that payment is past due and it remains unpaid. Under HB 525, the storage facility would not have to obtain a license for the sale and the sale could take place at a different physical location, or via an online auction.

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