Communal area guidance

It is everyone's responsibility to look after shared communal areas and follow the guidance for your safety.

Storing personal items

To comply with the Fire Safety Act 2021 and your Condition of Tenancy (Clause 3.14), no personal items may be stored in communal areas of flats or maisonettes. This includes hallways, corridors, stairs, landings, chute rooms, drying rooms, meter cupboards, cellars, dry risers, and other shared spaces outside your home.

Items such as bicycles, pushchairs, door mats, furniture, carpets, plants, boxes, and storage cupboards must not be left in these areas. Any items found will be removed and disposed of as waste, and you will be in breach of your tenancy agreement.

No smoking

Smoking is strictly prohibited in the communal areas of any Leicester City Council building, including your block. This is both a legal requirement and a Condition of Tenancy (Clause 3.11.11). If you, your family, or visitors are found smoking, we will take action against your tenancy.

Main security and fire doors

• Main security doors must remain closed at all times.
• Fire doors must never be wedged open. They are designed to prevent fire and smoke from spreading.
• If you notice any communal doors not closing properly or any damage to door closers, please report it immediately.

Door closures and window locks

• Fire regulations require that all fire doors have self-closing devices. Do not remove the overhead self-closer from any door, including your front door.
• Window locks are installed for safety. Do not tamper with them. If you notice a fault, report it to housing repairs immediately.

Reporting fire safety concerns

If you have concerns about fire safety in your block or home, or notice anything that could cause or spread a fire, please report it immediately:
Email: [email protected] 
Or contact your neighbourhood housing officer, building responsible officer, or housing team.