Simple ways to keep your communal area safe | Tenant news

Communal areas like stairwells, corridors, and entrance hallways are shared by everyone in your building, so making sure they’re free from clutter and hazards is important.

If a fire breaks out, you need to be able to get out quickly and safely, so we’ve put together some pointers to help keep your building safe for everyone.

1.     Keep shared areas clear

It might be tempting to leave things like prams, bikes, furniture, or even rubbish in the hallway, but communal areas should always be kept clear. Even small objects can block escape routes or become trip hazards.

Unless we’ve provided a designated storage area, please don’t leave anything in these spaces. Not only does it help prevent accidents, it also makes sure everyone has a safe way out in an emergency.

2.     Check with us before adding furnishings

Doormats, curtains, blinds, pictures, or decorations might seem harmless, but they can be a fire risk. Some materials are flammable, and larger items could make it harder to leave the building quickly.

If you’d like to add anything to a shared space, check with us first. We need to approve it in writing to make sure it won’t put anyone at risk.

3.     Know your evacuation plan

If there’s ever a fire, it’s important to know the quickest and safest way out of the building.

Your evacuation plan is displayed on signs in shared areas, so take a moment to check where your nearest exit is. If you’re unsure or need help understanding it, speak with your Neighbourhood Team.

4.     Don’t wedge open fire doors

Fire doors are designed to slow the spread of smoke and flames, giving you and your neighbours time to escape. But they only work if they’re kept closed.

Never wedge a fire door open or remove the door closer device.

Don’t paint over fire-resistant strips or seals and avoid using nails or screws on them. If you notice a damaged fire door, report it to us as soon as possible.

5.     Check your front door

Your front door is also an important safety feature. It helps prevent fire and smoke from spreading into your home.

If it needs repairing, let us know straight away. And if you’re thinking about replacing it, you’ll need to get our permission first to make sure it meets fire safety regulations.

6.     Be bin aware

Leaving rubbish in corridors or stairwells isn’t just inconvenient—it can be a serious fire hazard. Always use designated bin areas and never leave bin bags in shared spaces.

If you smoke, make sure cigarettes and matches are fully put out before throwing them away to reduce the risk of fire.

If you notice anything that could be a fire risk like blocked corridors, damaged fire doors, or faulty emergency lighting please let us know by calling Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 or email them at direct@habinteg.org.uk. Keeping communal areas safe is a shared responsibility, and small actions can make a big difference.

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