Extra Space Storage — Local services in Sebastian

UPDATE: A 97% rate hike in three months: my experience with Extra Space Storage

In July 2025, I signed a lease with Extra Space Storage in Sebastian for a 10x10 climate-controlled unit at $76 per month. Before I even moved in, I was asked to post a Google review. I chose not to, because being friendly and keeping a facility clean are basic expectations of any storage company. If a business cannot meet those, it should not be trusted with people’s most personal and irreplaceable belongings.

I am posting this review now because customers deserve to know what happens after the contract is signed. Within three months, my rate was raised by nearly 100%, with only 30 days’ notice. I called the company multiple times and responded through every channel available, providing clear, factual information. Each time, I received the same scripted answer, pointing to fine print instead of addressing the ethics or impact of their actions.

When I filed a formal complaint with the Better Business Bureau (Case #24034409), Extra Space responded that the increase was “within the law” and permitted by the lease, again avoiding any discussion of the ethics behind doubling a customer’s rate in 90 days or the burden placed on people who cannot easily relocate their possessions.

I understand the contract I signed. What I reject is the idea that this is a legitimate “market adjustment.” It is a calculated business strategy that exploits customers during moments of transition. Most people seek storage when life is already unsettled, moving to a new city, downsizing, or navigating other stressful and costly changes. To impose extreme rate hikes knowing people do not have the means or time to move their belongings elsewhere is deeply disappointing.

For most of us, storage is not about “extra stuff.” It is about protecting what is important: pieces of our lives that cannot be replaced. I trusted this company to do what was right. Instead, I learned a painful lesson: integrity does not seem to matter to them.

That is what disappoints me most. And it is why I would urge anyone considering renting from Extra Space Storage to look very carefully at their policies and decide whether this is truly a company you want to trust with...

Update 06/22/24 It’s only fair to recognize Shane, the Site Manager at Extra Space Storage in Sebastian. I was contacted promptly in response to my online inquiry regarding the unit rental increase. We discussed what occurred, and Shane explained that he values his customers and wanted to make himself available directly should any questions or concerns arise. Shane and I reached a fair resolution and I am pleased with the outcome. In business transactions it’s not a matter of problems arising, as they always will, but it’s how those problems are handled that determines whether a business will retain their customers or have to market to new customers. Shane’s willingness to listen to a customer’s concern, address the validity of the issue, and advocate for a fair resolution is both admirable and rare in 2024. It’s not the sign on the building that makes the brand, it’s the people who run the operation on the ground who make the difference. I would recommend this storage facility due to its easy access, low traffic, and professional management. It’s good to have some peace of mind knowing there are highly competent people at the helm. Thank you Extra Space Of Sebastian, and thank you Shane sir! Glad to do business with you.

Previous Issue Resolved: Extra Space advertises a Web Rate which will attract you, but be advised, my rate was increased over $80 within 3 months of signing the rental agreement. My unit was signed at $250 and was bumped to $330 with a nice little post card in the mail. Beware of the bait and switch tactics. You will be told rent changes with the market, however it only goes up. If rental rates are decreasing in the market, the only way to lower would be to move your contents and sign a new agreement. The $250 was an attractive price for the size of the unit, but the new rate is above market. FYI their current Web Rate for the unit is $145.00 as of today, but my rate is $338 with taxes. That is a big difference. The advertising tactics are not consumer friendly. Be careful, because once you move your household goods there, they know they got you for a bit. Poor advertising practice here at Extra Space Storage....

8/9/23 update: Web Buyers be ware - I called the number provided and talked to Walt. He informed me that the web rates are only temporary (3-4 months) and my rate went from $91 to $182 after 4 months. He was willing to bring it down to $145.60 a month but would not give me the current web rate of $93 a month.

Original review: I rented a 10 x 10 unit (via the web) for under $100/month (no AC and no Electricity). I had to pay $49 upfront for Admin Fee & Lock (special lock required for their unique door). They also required a monthly insurance, even though I had nothing of value stored in the unit. They sent the access code and move in was easy. However, after 3 months the cost of the unit almost doubled. When I called, I was told it was because of "demand". However, their website still advertised the same unit for under $100. It appears your company start off with a low rate and raise it a few months after people move their stuff in, assuming people will pay the increase vice having to move their stuff again.

I also tried to do a chat from their website on 8/8/23 and got:

"Matilda sent at 12:33 Hello there. Thank you for reaching out today. Yes, the system will review the rates every 3 to 9 months. Customers' rates are compared to the normal rate for the unit. If it's less, then they may receive a rate increase."

however, when I replied: "gary You sent at 12:34 but the current web rate has not changed from 3 months ago"

They cancelled my chat.: "Thanks for chatting with us! Your chat session has timed out due to inactivity. If you continue to need help please restart...