A doormat seems harmless, and so does a pot plant. But hallways and stairs in a block of flats are also the way out in a fire, and national guidance treats poor housekeeping in common parts as a significant fire hazard.
Unrestricted use is not an option
The government-published guide Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats says that unrestricted use of common parts is not acceptable. It sets out two alternatives. Every block should have a clear policy on which one applies.
Zero tolerance
Under zero tolerance, residents cannot use the common parts to store or dispose of belongings or rubbish, with no exceptions. The areas stay sterile, meaning free of combustible material, ignition sources and obstructions.
It is simple to understand, easier to inspect and audit, and removes fuel for both accidental and deliberate fires. The drawback is that it may be stricter than a particular building needs, and residents who manage their shared space well can feel unfairly penalised.
Managed use
Managed use allows strictly defined items in strictly defined places. Examples given in the guide include:
- pot plants and doormats outside front doors
- framed pictures and notice boards on walls
- bicycles, prams and mobility scooters stored out of the way, where they are not likely to cause an obstruction
It can make a block feel more homely and can particularly help older and disabled residents. It is also harder to get right. It needs clear rules, more communication, more frequent inspections and a good level of resident cooperation.
Which one should your block use?
The guide says zero tolerance should be the default. It should always apply when:
- there is doubt about residents' ability to follow a managed use policy
- the escape stairway is of combustible construction
- the building needs immediate evacuation because its protection does not support a stay-put policy
It should also be used where flats open directly onto stairways, unless the fire risk assessment accepts managed use.
Managed use needs a specific risk assessment for the building. It should apply only where there is a suitable standard of fire protection, and where residents are likely to keep to the rules.
Making the policy stick
- Base it on the fire risk assessment. The decision belongs there, not in a general notice.
- Put it in plain words. A short list of do's and don'ts works better than a long letter.
- Explain why. People accept rules more easily when they understand that the hallway is their escape route.
- Offer alternatives. The guide recognises that strict rules can cause frustration. Communal storage and suitable mobility scooter charging can help.
- Inspect and follow through. A rule that is not applied soon stops being a rule.
If you are a resident
Check the rules for your building before leaving anything outside your door. If you need to keep a mobility aid close by, speak to your managing agent so that a safe arrangement can be considered. If you see something blocking an escape route, report it.
This guide is general information for England at 1 November 2026, not legal advice. Your lease and your building's circumstances may change how it applies to you, and the law may change after this date.