Home safety

Home safety

We want residents to feel safe in their homes. That's why this page provides practical tips and information about how to be safe in your daily environment, and how to let us know if something isn't safe. Always report any concerns to us promptly, as small issues can quickly grow into bigger risks.

Everyday safety matters

Creating a safe home starts with simple, everyday habits. Regularly check for potential hazards and maintain clear pathways in your home. If you spot anything unsafe, whether inside your home or in communal spaces, let us know immediately. Together, we can address issues before they become serious.

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Helpful information to keep you safe

Gas

We conduct annual gas safety checks to protect you. Please allow access to Sureserve, our gas contractors, if they come to carry out an inspection - it is a legal requirement. 

If you suspect a gas leak, call the National Gas Emergency Service at 0800 111 999 and notify us right away on 020 7780 3070.

  • Gas bottles: do not store gas bottles in your home. This increases the risk of a fire or an explosion and is extremely dangerous. This is outlined in your tenancy agreement.
  • Medical oxygen: we know you may need to use medical oxygen. It's important to take necessary precautions to reduce the risk of a fire or explosion. Click here to read about how to stay safe with medical oxygen.

If you do use medical oxygen, please let us know immediately.

Read about medical oxygen safety

Electrical

We regularly test your home's electrical installations to keep them safe. Your cooperation is vital as electrical faults are a leading cause of house fires.

Practical tips

  • Plugs & cables: check for damage, don’t overload sockets, and avoid running cables under carpets.
  • Appliances & lights: use original chargers, switch off appliances when not in use, and follow manufacturer guidelines.
  • Heaters & blankets: don’t cover heaters or fold electric blankets when switched on.
  • E-bikes & e-scooters: charge safely by using original chargers, unplugging when done, and avoiding unattended or overnight charging.

For helpful electrical safety information

Water

Legionnaires’ disease is a rare but serious illness caused by inhaling water droplets with Legionella bacteria. It thrives in water between 20–45°C and is killed above 60°C.

How to reduce risks

  • Run taps/showers for 1 minute if unused for days.
  • Flush toilets twice to refresh water.
  • Clean shower heads and taps regularly.
  • Keep hot water above 60°C (watch for scalding).
  • Avoid tampering with water systems.
We manage risks in communal systems and perform regular inspections to ensure water safety.

Windows

Window restrictors help prevent falls by limiting how far windows can open—especially crucial in high-rise buildings.

  • Our safety checks: we inspect restrictors during annual visits, contractor appointments, and property surveys.
  • What you can do: if a restrictor is faulty or missing, report it immediately to our customer service team to ensure your safety.

Asbestos

Many buildings constructed before 2000 may contain asbestos. It’s generally safe if left undisturbed, but if you notice damage or suspect exposure, contact us for guidance. Avoid drilling, sanding, or breaking suspected materials.

Pest control

Pests can be upsetting and challenging to manage. If you spot pests or signs of them in your home or communal areas, report it to us immediately.

Common pests include: bed bugs, mice, rats, cockroaches, wasps, pigeons, and squirrels.

Your role: keep your home clean and rubbish-free to prevent infestations. Ensure contractors have access to treat the problem if needed.

Pest prevention tips:

  • Clean surfaces and floors regularly.
  • Store food in sealed containers.
  • Dispose of rubbish properly.
  • Block holes with fillers to stop pests from entering.
  • Work with neighbours to keep shared spaces tidy.

If the issue can't be solved by any of the above advice, please contact us and we can arrange for a professional pest control service.