How we keep communal areas safe

We check all communal areas and shared facilities such as corridors, stairwells, lounges, kitchens and laundry rooms regularly, to make sure they’re clear and safe for everyone. Habinteg manage water hygiene, electrical safety and we maintain equipment such as lifts, and checking for any other health and safety risks.

When we carry out safety checks, we’ll report any emergency repairs in communal areas.

We’ll place signs on any items that we feel need to be removed so you can clear the area yourself. This includes prams, mobility aids or scooters, bikes or ornaments that could impede your escape route.

If we’re concerned that an item poses an immediate danger, we’ll remove it on the same day.

Keep it clear
It’s really important you keep communal areas including stairwells, corridors and entrance hallways, clear of any obstructions. So you can get out quickly and easily in an emergency, and help prevent flames from spreading if a fire breaks out.

Don’t store items in shared areas
Unless we have provided a designated area for storage, no items should be kept in any communal area. This includes rubbish or unwanted goods.

Get our permission for furnishings
Don’t install curtains or blinds, doormats, pictures or decorations unless they have been approved by us in writing, in case they are made of potentially flammable materials or could affect how easy it is to leave the building in an emergency.

Know the evacuation plan for your building
You can find it on signs in shared areas.

Keep fire doors closed and report any damage to us
Never wedge fire doors open or remove door closer devices. Don’t paint over strips or seals, or use nails or screws.

Tell us if your front door needs repairing
It’s designed to slow the spread of smoke and flames if a fire breaks out. Get permission from us before renewing your door, and let us in when we visit to carry out checks.

Be bin aware
Only leave rubbish in designated areas and make sure you extinguish things like cigarettes and matches before you throw them out.