Pretty much every piano goes through periods of not being used for a long time, for all kinds of reasons. At some point the question arises whether the space could and should be put to better use. Sometimes the piano then needs a good home for a transitional period – for example during moves, home renovations, longer stays abroad, settling of estates, lack of space due to small children, creative breaks from playing, etc.
Even in living spaces, a piano should not stand closed and unused for months or years, as it then also runs the risk of being visited by pests or developing lasting shortcomings due to lack of use and service. To maintain its value, it should also be tuned regularly (e.g. every 18–24 months) even if it is not played.
Under no circumstances may the instrument be put in an unheated storeroom, in the attic, in the garage or in the basement. Commercial warehouses are not suitable either, as they usually cannot guarantee the climate control a piano needs. There it suffers such severe structural damage within a few days/weeks that it can only be saved with extensive renovation.
If there is no longer room for the piano in the living space – and it is to remain in the family – we recommend having it stored professionally. In return for the storage fees, you gain space and the good feeling that the instrument is waiting for you in good hands and protected from damage.
Some movers offer storage as a sideline – and cannot prove adequate storage conditions. Over the past decades, we have seen numerous instruments that have suffered considerable damage (cracking, pest infestation, damage to the case, etc.) due to incorrect transport or incorrect storage. Mostly due to a lack of intake / release documentation, the owners were unable to make any claims.
Rather than putting the piano into poor storage, it may be better to sell it, as otherwise you risk storage costs, trouble and loss of value all at once. So be sure to check possible offers carefully and only store a piano where it is handled professionally and this is also documented.
If a piano is played and serviced regularly during storage, it can continue to be used with a simple service after storage and return transport. If storage conditions were poor, an inspection and possibly repairs are necessary. We recommend having the piano’s condition checked and documented on intake into storage and on release.
We offer professional storage of instruments – on request including regular playing and service. You can find our offer here. (Link)