We have a new Communal Area Fire Safety Policy.  The policy outlines how we keep your communal areas clear. With your help, we can reduce the risk of fire in our stairwells and communal spaces. The aim of the Policy is to make sure we meet our obligations as a landlord to our customers. 

We will make sure that the communal areas, both internal and external, are managed effectively and kept free from obstructions or hazards to protect the health and safety of customers and other users of our buildings.

Why have we created the policy?

• To reduce the number of items that are being left in communal spaces. This includes soft furnishings, bags of rubbish, mattresses and in some occasions, gas canisters.
• To make sure residents are able to leave the building without tripping or falling over items or injuring themselves.
• To make sure communal areas are clutter free and offer a safe route of access for the Fire Service if they need to visit and put out a fire. 
• To make sure other emergency services, such as the Ambulance Service, has safe access and egress when dealing with emergencies. 

What does the new Fire Safety in Communal Areas Policy say?

The Policy explains what communal areas are and why it is important that these remain clear of your personal possessions.  It is also a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and is enforceable by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

What happens if I don’t remove my things?

We can take legal action, however, we would prefer to find a way for everyone with communal areas to live in a safe environment.

• We will work with you to find the best solution. 
• We may need to remove items in the communal areas. 
• We will remove any items that are an immediate fire or trip hazard, for example fuels such as petrol, gas canisters/cylinders.

Internal communal areas such as connecting corridors, landings, stairwells, lobbies, meeting rooms or common rooms must be kept entirely free from obstruction. Even temporary obstructions pose a risk of fire and injury and can cause inconvenience including loss of access for residents and visitors. 

Common obstructions in internal communal areas include, but are not limited to, rubbish and items awaiting disposal, furnishings such as flower pots, bicycles, prams, motorised cycles, scooters and mobility scooters. Personal effects such as photo frames and pictures should not be placed in communal areas.

If you feel there is an issue or concern in your area, please get in touch with us and our Estates team can carry out an inspection.  The Scottish Fire & Rescue Service can also provide a home fire safety visit – you can arrange this via their website www.firescotland.gov.uk or calling 0800 0731999.