Why an industrial suite beats a storage unit for this
- You can work in it. Self-storage prohibits working in the unit. An industrial suite is designed for it, with power, heat and a real overhead door.
- Height. 15 to 18-foot clear height in our buildings means a lift fits, and vertical storage frees your floor.
- A real door. 14-foot grade-level doors at Rankin, 12-foot at Northville, 10-foot at Novi. Measure what you are driving in.
- Heat. All warehouse suites at all three properties are heated, which matters for a Michigan winter and for anything you care about.
- Cost per square foot. Past a few hundred square feet, industrial space is often better value than climate-controlled storage, and you get the door and the power with it.
What you need to be straight about
Landlords will ask what the space is for, and a vague answer creates suspicion rather than flexibility. Be direct: "private workshop and storage for my own project vehicles, no business operating from the space, no customers" is clear and frequently approvable.
What is not permitted anywhere:
- Living or sleeping in the space. Industrial zoning does not permit residential occupancy. This is a code and insurance issue and no legitimate landlord will approve it.
- Running an unpermitted business. If you are selling, servicing or storing for others, that is a commercial use requiring the right use clause and zoning. Say so and it can usually be structured properly.
Storing fuel or regulated materials beyond small permitted quantities.
- Outdoor storage of vehicles without approval. See Outdoor Storage, Trailer Parking and Yard Space.
Practical things to check
Electrical service if you are running a lift, compressor or welder. Whether you can install a lift, which needs landlord approval and floor load confirmation. Access hours, since Z Novi Commons offers 24/7 tenant access. Insurance requirements for what you are storing. Lease term, which is three to five years at our properties rather than month to month.
Which property fits
- Rankin Business Park, Troy — the best fit. 14-foot doors, 16'–18' clear for a lift, suites from 1,287 SF, lowest rate at $11.95/SF/YR MG.
Z Novi Commons, Novi — 24/7 access, heated, 15-foot ceilings, 10-foot doors, free overnight vehicle parking. $17/SF/YR MG.
Northville Research Center — 12-foot doors, 16-foot clear, from 1,278 SF. $20/SF/YR MG.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent warehouse space just to store cars?
Yes, as a permitted storage use with the right lease clause.
Can I install a car lift?
With prior written approval, subject to floor loading, ceiling clearance and permits.
Can I live in my warehouse unit?
No. Industrial zoning does not permit residential occupancy and it creates code, insurance and safety problems.
Is it cheaper than self-storage?
Often, above a certain size, and you get a real door, power and the ability to work in it.
Can I rent month to month?
Not at our properties. Three to five years is standard.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, and confirm the requirement covers what you are storing.
Tell us what you are storing and working on. 248-246-1752 or Available Space.
See available space Call 248-246-1752