Pretty much every piano goes through periods of prolonged disuse. For very different reasons. At some point, the question arises as to whether the space can and should be put to better use. Sometimes the piano then needs a good place to stay for a transitional period. This is also the case when moving house, renovating a house, living abroad for a longer period of time, inheritance declarations, space requirements due to a small child, creative breaks from playing, etc.
A piano should not be left closed and unused for months or years, even in living rooms, as it then runs the risk of being visited by pests or developing lasting deficits due to lack of use and service. To maintain its value, it should also be tuned regularly (e.g. every 18-24 months) when it is not being played.
Under no circumstances should the instrument be stored in an unheated storeroom, attic, garage or cellar. Commercial warehouses are also unsuitable, as they usually do not provide the necessary climate control for the piano. Within a few days/weeks, the piano will be so badly damaged that it can only be saved with extensive renovations.
If the piano no longer has a place in the living room - and is to remain in the possession of the family - it is advisable to have it professionally stored. 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 companies offer storage as a take-away service - and cannot provide evidence of adequate storage conditions. Over the last few decades, we have come across numerous instruments that have suffered considerable damage (cracks, pest infestation, body damage, etc.) due to incorrect transport or incorrect storage. In most cases, the owners were unable to assert any claims due to a lack of incoming/outgoing documentation.
Before the piano is stored badly, it may be better to sell it, as otherwise there is a risk of storage costs, annoyance and loss of value at the same time. It is therefore essential to check possible offers carefully and only store a piano where it is handled professionally and documented.
If a piano is regularly played and serviced during storage, it can be used again after storage and return transport with a simple service. In the event of poor storage conditions, an assessment and repair may be necessary. We recommend having the condition of the piano checked and documented when storing and removing it from storage.
We offer professional storage of instruments - on request, including regular checking and servicing. You can find our offer here.
