In our flats and Haven housing schemes, communal areas such as corridors, staircases, landings, gardens and pathways must be kept clear to meet fire safety requirements and help keep everyone safe. If you live in a flat or Haven scheme, this is part of your contract.

Items regularly found in communal areas include prams and pushchairs, bikes, mobility scooters, children’s toys, plants, doormats, rubbish bags, electrical goods, furniture and bulky items such as sofas and fridges. In the event of a fire, these items can:

• Block escape routes

• Make it harder for emergency services to gain access

• Increase smoke and fumes, making the situation more dangerous

If our staff identify items that could present a safety risk, we will try to contact the owner and ask for them to be removed. Where an item poses a serious risk, we may need to remove it without notice to protect tenants and visitors.

We’re here to help
If you’re unsure what can be kept in communal areas, contact your housing officer or call 0300 777 0000.