Living in a tower block

Living in a tower block can be different from living in a house or low-rise flat. You share communal areas with other residents, and there are additional safety and security measures in place.

This page explains what to expect, how to stay safe, and how you can help keep your building safe and pleasant for everyone.

All residents share responsibility for their building. Some blocks have residents’ associations that you can get involved in. Speak to customer services to find out if there is one in your building.

Building safety and fire procedures

Your safety is our priority.

Make sure you understand the safety procedures for your building. 

You should read:

• the fire evacuation procedures for your tower block
• the fire safety guidance for all council tenants

We have developed a Building Safety Resident Engagement Strategy in consultation with residents to make sure our buildings meet current safety regulations.

Report a safety concern

Report a safety concern immediately if you notice:

• damage to the building's structure
• fire risks, such as items in corridors or stairwells
• damaged or faulty fire doors or fire safety equipment

See Report a building safety concern with council housing.

Security

Tower blocks have security features such as entry systems and CCTV.

You can help keep your building secure by:

• making sure the main entrance closes behind you
• not propping open communal doors
• not letting in people you do not know

Maintenance and utilities

We carry out regular maintenance and safety checks on essential services, including:

• lifts and ventilation systems
• water pumps
• window cleaning
• lightning protection

Report any maintenance issues to the caretaking service as soon as possible. 

Tower blocks do not have a gas supply. You must use electric appliances, including electric cookers and heating.

TV and mobile phone reception is usually strong. Some blocks have masts on the roof which help to improve signal.

Communal areas

We maintain communal areas such as entrances, lifts, hallways and stairs. Information about the caretaking service is available in the ground floor foyer.

Fire safety equipment is for emergency use only.

You must keep communal areas clear and safe. See Keeping your estate in good condition for guidance.

Rubbish disposal

Use the rubbish chutes located on each floor for small bags of household waste.

Make sure rubbish is securely tied in small bags. Do not put large items or loose waste down the chutes as this causes blockages and fire risks.

If you have large items:

• take them to the ground floor bin store using the lift
• arrange a bulky waste collection

Keeping pets

You must get permission from us before keeping a pet in your council home.

Dogs and cats are not usually allowed in tower blocks, except assistance dogs.

Be considerate of your neighbours

Living in a tower block means living close to other people. Everyday noise can travel between homes, so please be considerate of your neighbours and help create a comfortable living environment for everyone.

You can help by:

• keeping TVs, music and games at a reasonable volume, especially during the evening and at night
• avoiding loud DIY, drilling or other noisy activities late at night or early in the morning
• being considerate when using communal areas, corridors, stairwells and balconies
• talking to your neighbours respectfully about a problem, if you feel comfortable doing so
• making sure children and visitors are considerate of other residents

If noise from a neighbour is persistent or significantly affecting you, speak to customer services so we can discuss the issue and provide advice on the most appropriate way to report it.