Royal Oak Tenants Reported Mold in Storage Units
Renters at a local Public Storage facility discovered mold damage on stored belongings despite paying for climate-controlled units.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Apartments
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Tenants at a Royal Oak Public Storage location have reported widespread mold growth on items kept in climate-controlled units. Affected customers have submitted formal claims and contacted management, though many report that their concerns remain unaddressed.
Why it matters
When climate-controlled storage fails to maintain proper conditions, residents risk significant financial loss through the destruction of stored personal property. The lack of responsiveness from management complicates the recovery process for those seeking compensation for damaged goods.
Multiple tenants reported mold damage at the Royal Oak facility, following similar incidents previously documented at a location in Downriver. The exact value of the destroyed property remains unknown as claims processing is currently stalled.
The players
Public Storage
A national self-storage company that provides rental units for household goods and business inventory.
Brittany Bacinski
A tenant who reported finding mold on her belongings stored in a climate-controlled unit.
The details
The issue involves units specifically marketed as climate-controlled, which are intended to regulate temperature and humidity levels to protect sensitive items. Tenants have attempted to resolve the damage by submitting claims and emailing management, but report that Public Storage employees have remained inaccessible. When customers have visited the office to discuss these conditions, they report that employees have locked the facility doors to avoid further inquiries.
Timeline
Summer 2026: Brittany Bacinski began renting a storage unit.
Late September 2026: Mold was discovered on stored items.
October 8, 2026: Local 4 sent an email inquiry to Public Storage.
October 11, 2026: Local 4 staff attempted an in-person contact with an employee.
Money Landscape
This development follows a pattern set by previous reported mold incidents at a facility in Downriver. It serves as a reminder of the limitations of climate-controlled guarantees in the self-storage industry.
If you have items in storage, inspect them immediately and document any signs of moisture or damage with photographs. Consult a legal or insurance professional to understand the steps for filing a formal claim under your rental agreement.
The takeaway
Property damage resulting from facility mismanagement requires immediate documentation to support any future reimbursement claims. Review your rental contract and specific insurance coverage to identify the liability limits for items stored at third-party facilities.
Further reading
For tips on protecting your belongings in rental spaces, see our guide on Apartments.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WDIV.
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