23/02/2026
Your safety is our priority. One of the simplest ways we can look out for ourselves, and our neighbours is by keeping shared spaces clear and using balconies safely.
Clear corridors and tidy balconies help reduce fire risks and ensure everyone can get out quickly in an emergency.
To keep escape routes safe and accessible:
- Please keep walkways and communal areas free from clutter.
- Electrical cupboards and risers must always remain empty.
- You can have one small doormat outside your front door
(up to 45cm × 75cm for high‑rise buildings, and up to 60cm × 75cm for low‑rise buildings)
What you can keep on your balcony:
- One small doormat (sizes as above)
- Up to five living plants in ceramic or metal pots with drip trays
Please avoid plastic pots, wooden planters, trellis, dry or dead plants, or anything that overhangs.
- Clothes drying on an airer for short periods
Bring in once dry and avoid leaving them out overnight. - Mobility aids, with approval from Poplar HARCA
- Satellite dishes installed or approved by Poplar HARCA
- A small amount of patio furniture
It must be fire‑retardant and made from hard materials (e.g. metal or treated wood, with no cushions or soft furnishings) - Prams, buggies and bikes
A small amount only, and they must be non‑combustible
If you live in a high-rise building (over 7 storeys or over 18 metres)
For everyone’s safety, corridors and shared indoor spaces must stay completely clear at all times. Only one small doormat outside your front door is allowed.
If you live in a low-rise building (under 7 storeys or under 18 metres)
Outside your front door, alongside one doormat, you can also have:
- Small potted plants
- Simple decorations
- Clothes drying briefly on an airer
On your balcony, alongside the items listed above for everyone, you can also put up temporary decorations, such as lights or wedding decorations.
Need help or want to report an issue?
We’re here to support you.
If you’d like advice about safe storage or want to report a concern, please contact us:
By working together, we can keep your building safe for everyone.