LIVING
IN FLATS 
LIVING
IN FLATS If you live in a flat, bedsit or maisonette you need to treat your neighbours with particular consideration and respect. You also have certain responsibilities to look after common areas.
We are responsible for all open plan areas and communal gardens we own. This includes looking after flowerbeds, shrubs and trees in these areas to ensure they are in good condition and do not get overgrown. Grass in these areas is cut every 15 days during the growing months. If you think any particular area or tree needs attention please do not hesitate to contact Community First. See USEFUL CONTACTS. Communal gardens are provided for the enjoyment of all residents of the building. It is important that you, members of your household, and any visitors respect the other users of the gardens and help to keep the area a pleasant place to be in and to look at.
We provide central satellite dishes for blocks of flats or maisonettes. Some blocks of flats have a communal television aerial. However not all the flats in the block may be connected. If you are having difficulties in getting a good picture first check with your neighbour to see whether they are also having problems. Ask your neighbours. If others are also affected let us know. Contact your Area Housing Office .
Repairs to common areas should be reported to the Repairs Contact Centre. See USEFUL CONTACTS. When major renovation work or programmed painting is due to take place you will be told well in advance.
Cleaning: The Mobile Estate Warden Team and cleaning contractors are responsible for cleaning staircases, corridors and hallways in blocks of flats or maisonettes. Windows in these areas are cleaned on the inside by window cleaning contractors once every 6 weeks.
Residents on every landing are jointly responsible for keeping the area clean and tidy.
Repairs: Any problems with lighting or repairs needed in the common areas of the block should be reported in the normal way to the Repairs Call Centre.
Rubbish Disposal: Refuse chutes and common bins are provided for blocks of flats. Do not put hot ashes into these as this can cause a fire. Also wrap up wet, rotting or sharp objects before throwing them away.
Do not put cardboard boxes or sharp objects down chutes. They can block or cause damage.
Safety: All common areas must be kept clear in the interests of safety and easy access. This means that tenants cannot store or leave items, temporarily or permanently, outside their doors, on landings or in other common areas. We will take action to remove any such items, eg bikes, toys, prams or rubbish and will charge you for the cost of doing this.
Roadways, paths and entrance ways must also be kept clear to allow emergency vehicles access to the buildings.
The Mobile Estate Warden Team looks after blocks of flats or maisonettes with common areas. The Team's duties include:
The Team also carries out other duties to ensure all areas of the Borough are clean and safe. See HOUSING SERVICES.
Your Enquiry | Common Areas and Facilities | Respecting Your Neighbours | The Mobile Estate Warden Team