With multiple residents living under one roof, there are a number of hazards that could cause harm in a block of flats.
Research has shown that the main causes of fires in flats, are usually found in residents’ individual properties, rather than in the communal areas. Things like overloaded electrical sockets, cigarettes, unattended frying plans left on switched on hobs and fallen candles, are all recipes for disaster and have been found to have been the lead causes of fires. Leaseholders are responsible for ensuring fire safety is maintained in their individual properties and other neighbours will be counting on you to ensure this is the case.
There are, however, also hazards that can occur in the communal areas. Whilst the management company/landlord will be responsible for ensuring these areas are as safe as possible, cooperation from the residents is key.
For example, many residents tend to leave items unattended or abandoned in the communal areas, such as bikes, prams and unwanted furniture. Whilst you may not think there is an issue leaving your bike in the hallway over night, this (and any other items) are dangerous obstacles. In the event of a fire, these items could prevent residents from exiting quickly and even cause further harm if for example, a resident were to trip and fall over that supposedly innocent bicycle. Most agents will tell residents that items must not be stored in communal areas and there is a good reason for that! It is essential that residents take note and comply.
Similarly, items must not be stored in the electrical meter cupboards. If an electrical fire were to ignite, the fire would spread even more quickly if there are combustibles the flames can quickly latch on to.
Other hazards such as uneven paving slabs, torn carpet and slippy steps will also present a danger. Whilst property managers will inspect as regularly as is possible, it is essential that the residents report any issues they encounter to the managing agent as quickly as possible, to ensure this is dealt with without delay. Do not rely on another resident reporting the issue, as that resident may well think the same!
Leaving a property empty for a long period of time can alway cause issues. If a resident is travelling abroad and a leak occurs in the vacant property, this could be undetected for some time and only become apparent when serious damage results. We recommend if you are planning to be uncontactable or absent for a period of time, let your managing agent know how you can be reached and who holds spare keys for your property.
There is no need, in this day and age, to be subject to unnecessary risks so we ask all our residents to be vigilant, to comply with our notices and to promptly report any concern.
If you have any health and safety concerns at all, contact your managing agent immediately to make those known!
