8 Fire Safety Tips For Shared Stairwells in Housing Association Buildings

ServiceMaster Restore’s top fire safety tips for shared stairwells in housing association buildings.

Shared stairwells are crucial in housing association buildings. They are not merely walkways but serve as essential escape routes. In a fire, these spaces can either save lives or pose risks, depending on their use and upkeep.

Fire safety in shared stairwells relies on simple habits, clearly defined responsibilities, and consistent maintenance.

1. Why shared stairwells matter in a fire

In most housing association blocks, stairwells serve as the primary escape route during an emergency. Residents depend on them to evacuate quickly and safely.

If stairwells are blocked, cluttered, or poorly maintained, evacuation becomes more difficult. Smoke spreads more quickly. Visibility decreases. Panic rises.

A clear stairwell gives people time and space when they need it most.

2. Keep stairwells clear at all times

This is the most important rule.

Avoid storing items in shared stairwells, such as bikes, pushchairs, mobility scooters, furniture, boxes, or rubbish bags. Even small objects can cause tripping hazards or hinder evacuation efforts.

Clutter also fuels fires. Cardboard, fabrics, and plastics burn rapidly and produce thick smoke.

Stairwells must remain clear at all times, even when storage space inside flats seems limited.

3. Prevent smoke and fire spread

Fire doors in stairwells serve a purpose. They help to slow the spread of fire and smoke, thereby protecting escape routes.

Do not wedge fire doors open. Do not tamper with door closers. If a door does not close properly, report it as soon as possible.

Smoke seals and door frames must stay intact. Damage diminishes their ability to contain smoke.

4. Lighting and visibility

Good lighting aids people’s safe movement, particularly in emergencies.

Report broken lights immediately. Emergency lighting must be tested and maintained by the housing association or building manager.

Visibility also relies on clean floors, walls, and handrails. Dirt, smoke stains, or damage can make stairwells more difficult to navigate.

5. Avoid fire risks in shared areas

Never smoke in shared stairwells. Do not leave candles, portable heaters, or electrical devices in communal areas.

Electrical cupboards and meter areas should remain shut and secured. Do not tamper with wiring or equipment.

If you notice exposed wiring, damaged cables, or signs of overheating, report them immediately.

6. Resident responsibilities

Fire safety is not solely the responsibility of the housing association; residents also have a vital role.

If you notice blocked exits, fire doors wedged open, damaged flooring or rubbish left behind, report it to the building manager or housing association.

Fire safety is most effective when everyone shares responsibility, not only during inspections.

7. Why regular cleaning supports fire safety

Clean stairwells are safer stairwells.

Dust, debris, and litter raise slip hazards and can fuel fires. Regular professional cleaning keeps floors clear, signs visible, and handrails safe to use.

It also helps issues stand out earlier, such as damage, obstructions, or misuse of shared spaces.

8. Fire safety relies on everyday actions

Fire safety in shared stairwells relies on consistency, not major changes.

To summarise, ensure escape routes are clear, keep fire doors closed, maintain good lighting, keep spaces clean and well-maintained, and report issues promptly.

These everyday actions protect residents, visitors, and emergency services.

New Fire Safety Residential Evacuation Plans Regulations

Fire safety regulations in the UK have been evolving steadily over recent years, but 2026 appears to be a significant turning point. New rules are being introduced that extend fire safety enforcement further than many might anticipate, especially in residential buildings.

These amendments are not merely administrative; they signify a shift in how we approach safeguarding individuals in their own homes.

One of the most talked-about changes is the introduction of new fire evacuation planning rules for certain residential buildings in England. From 6 April 2026, the Government’s Fire Safety Residential Evacuation Plans Regulations 2025 will come into effect. These Regulations aim to enhance the support and protection for people who might have difficulty escaping a fire.

What the New Fire Safety Residential Evacuation Plans Regulations 2025 Mean in Practice

Under the new regulations, owners and managers of high-rise residential buildings have specific responsibilities to identify residents who may have difficulty evacuating independently during an emergency. This includes individuals with mobility issues, sensory impairments, or conditions that affect their ability to respond quickly in a fire.

In buildings taller than a certain height (for example, at least 18 metres or five storeys), the “Responsible Person” must collaborate with these residents to develop a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP). These are customised evacuation instructions agreed with the resident that explain what they should do in the event of a fire.

Owners must also conduct a Person-Centred Fire Risk Assessment (PCFRA). This involves discussing a resident’s specific needs and the risks they might face when evacuating the building. The results help to develop a practical evacuation plan.

A Shift Toward Responsible Enforcement

The upcoming changes demonstrate that fire safety enforcement is no longer just about having alarms or clear exit signs. It now involves understanding individual residents’ needs, planning accordingly, and regularly reviewing those plans. Fire authorities will enforce these responsibilities under existing fire safety legislation.

That means building owners and managers have genuine responsibility. They must not only conduct assessments but also act on the findings and maintain accurate records. Failure to comply can result in enforcement actions, ranging from improvement notices to fines.

Why This Matters for Safety

Fire safety enforcement in 2026 incorporates lessons from previous tragedies. Notably, the Grenfell Tower fire highlighted the challenges faced by residents unable to evacuate. The new Regulations address recommendations from public inquiries and consultations, emphasising improved planning for vulnerable residents.

For the first time, certain residential buildings will be legally required to develop evacuation plans that account for each resident’s ability to evacuate in an emergency. This might include written statements, agreed evacuation routes, or practical support options. The aim is to ensure that no one is overlooked because their situation was never officially assessed.

What Building Owners and Residents Should Do Next

If you are responsible for a qualifying building, now is the time to prepare. Learning how to identify residents who might need support and how to carry out a person-centred risk assessment is important. It also helps to build trust. Conversations about evacuation can be sensitive, and residents must consent to the plans.

For residents in taller buildings, it’s worth asking about your building’s emergency plans. You can raise questions with your landlord or managing agent if you feel your evacuation needs aren’t properly understood or documented.

A Stronger Focus on Safety in 2026 and Beyond

Fire safety enforcement in 2026 focuses on taking practical steps to safeguard lives. It goes beyond general assessments and requires building owners to consider actual needs. It urges them to act and demonstrate that they have done so.

For families, landlords, and building managers alike, this increase in fire safety enforcement is not just a legal requirement. It’s a chance to make homes safer, plan for emergencies that work for everyone, and respond with greater care when it matters most.

For any fire damage restoration queries, contact your local ServiceMaster Restore today.

Fire, Water, Mould – Why Secondary Damage Drives Up Claim Costs

Fire, Water, Mould – Why Secondary Damage Drives Up Claim Costs

When something goes wrong in a property, the first damage is usually obvious. For example, a fire breaks out, a pipe bursts, or water floods a room. That part feels clear and immediate. However, what catches many people out is what happens next.

Secondary damage is the damage that follows the original incident. It often causes more disruption, costs more to fix, and takes longer to resolve. In many insurance claims, secondary damage is what drives up costs, sometimes far beyond what people expect.

What Is Secondary Damage?

Secondary damage occurs when the initial problem is not addressed quickly or thoroughly.

After a fire, the water used to put it out soaks into floors, walls, and insulation. Smoke particles settle into soft furnishings and hidden spaces.

After a leak or flood, moisture spreads beyond the visible area. It moves under flooring, behind walls, and into ceiling voids.

If moisture remains, mould can develop, therefore turning a water issue into a mould remediation job, which is more complex and costly.

How Fire Damage Leads to Water and Mould Problems

Fire damage rarely comes alone. Firefighting efforts introduce large amounts of water into a property. In winter, drying takes longer.

If soot and moisture are not removed quickly, they continue to damage surfaces. Metal corrodes. Fabrics absorb smoke smells. Damp areas stay wet.

Over time, mould can form in areas that were never directly touched by flames. At that point, the claim becomes larger, more complicated, and more expensive.

How Water Damage Turns into Mould Damage

Water damage spreads fast, especially in larger properties. Even when the visible water is removed, moisture often remains trapped.

That moisture feeds mould growth. Mould does not need much to grow. Warmth, time, and a damp surface are enough.

Once mould is present, cleaning alone is no longer enough. Materials may need to be removed. Air quality becomes a concern. Occupants may need to leave the space. All of this adds to the cost and time of the claim.

Why Secondary Damage Increases Claim Costs

Secondary damage increases costs for several reasons.

  • More areas of the property become affected.
  • More materials need repairing or replacing.
  • Specialist cleaning and drying equipment is required.
  • Restoration takes longer, increasing labour and disruption.

Insurers frequently look at how quickly action was taken. Delays can lead to higher excesses, longer claim timelines, and additional scrutiny.

Why Early Action Matters

 

The fastest way to control claim costs is to limit secondary damage.

  • Early drying prevents moisture from spreading.
  • Timely cleaning prevents smoke and soot from settling deeper.
  • Early assessment identifies hidden damage before it worsens.

Prompt professional restoration reduces the chance of mould, structural damage, and extended downtime.

How Professional Restoration Helps Control Costs

Restoration is not only about fixing what you can see, but it is also about stopping damage from escalating.

Professional teams assess the full extent of fire, water, and mould impact. They target affected areas early and use controlled drying and cleaning methods to protect the rest of the property.

This approach keeps claims more manageable and helps properties return to use sooner.

Support When It Matters Most

Fire, water, and mould damage can feel overwhelming. The uncertainty is often worse than the damage itself. Knowing the right steps to take early makes a real difference.

ServiceMaster Restore supports property owners and insurers by acting quickly and decreasing the risk of secondary damage. Our teams focus on protecting the building, controlling costs, and helping life return to normal.

If you need support after fire, water, or mould damage, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.

 

 

Why Water Damage Spreads Faster in Commercial Buildings

Water damage in commercial properties rarely stays confined. A small leak can quickly extend across floors, walls, and ceilings.

Businesses often discover the full extent of water damage only after operations have been disrupted.

Commercial buildings face unique risks. Large spaces, complex systems, and continuous use allow water to spread quickly and cause significant damage.

Where Water Damage Often Starts in Commercial Buildings

Water damage often begins in areas that are used daily or rarely checked.

Plumbing failures in kitchens, toilets, and plant rooms are common sources. A broken pipe or faulty connection can leak significant amounts of water before detection.

Flat roofs are also vulnerable. Blocked outlets or damaged membranes can cause rainwater to pool and seep inside, often unnoticed until ceilings stain or collapse.

Sprinkler systems and fire suppression equipment can fail unexpectedly. Even minor faults may discharge water across multiple areas.

HVAC systems are another frequent source. Condensation or leaks above ceilings can drip for days before detection.

Why Water Damage Spreads So Fast in Commercial Properties

Open floor plans allow water to spread easily. Raised floors conceal moisture, while ceiling voids move water along cable routes and ducting.

Foot traffic worsens the problem, as staff and customers may unknowingly spread water throughout the building.

Moisture can quickly reach electrical systems, stock areas, and internal partitions.

By the time damage is visible, water may already be deep within the structure.

The Impact on Your Business

Water damage causes more than physical harm. It creates health and safety hazards, such as slippery floors, mould growth, and dangerous electrical systems.

Business disruption is often unavoidable, as some areas may need to close for drying and repairs. Stock, equipment, and documents may also be damaged beyond repair.

Delays can also impact insurance claims. Insurers expect prompt action, and slow responses may increase costs and prolong downtime.

What to Do Immediately

Prompt action is essential when addressing water damage.

  • If safe, isolate the water source.
  • Keep staff and customers clear of affected areas.
  • Photograph visible damage for documentation purposes.

Do not attempt to dry large areas yourself. Commercial water damage requires controlled drying to prevent further spread.

Early professional assistance reduces harm and speeds up recovery.

When Professional Restoration Becomes Necessary

Moisture trapped in floors, walls, and ceilings can continue to cause damage long after the leak is stopped.

Professional restoration teams use specialised equipment to detect hidden moisture, manage drying, and prevent secondary issues such as mould or structural damage. Early intervention protects your property, reduces downtime, and ensures compliance with health and safety regulations.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

ServiceMaster Restore provides emergency water damage restoration for commercial properties across the UK. Our teams respond quickly, assess the full extent of the damage, and begin restoration without delay.

We work with insurers and loss adjusters to keep claims moving and minimise disruption to your business.

If your commercial property has suffered water damage, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can assist today.