Housing Management Communal Areas and Private Balcony Storage Policy

Overview

Kensington and Chelsea Council's Housing Management Communal Areas and Private Balcony Storage Policy sets out rules to ensure communal spaces and balconies in residential buildings remain safe, accessible, and free from fire hazards. The policy focuses on keeping escape routes clear, reducing clutter, and preventing dangerous items from being stored in shared areas or on balconies. While some low-risk items such as small doormats, real plants, and limited balcony furniture are permitted, hazardous or combustible items including e-bikes, mobility scooters in communal areas, BBQs, gas canisters, and excessive storage are prohibited.

The Council carries out regular inspections and may issue warnings, remove unsafe items, recover costs, or take enforcement action where residents do not comply. The policy also emphasises resident responsibility in maintaining safe communal environments, reporting hazards, and following fire safety guidance, while allowing reasonable adjustments for vulnerable or disabled residents where appropriate.

The updated policy strengthens fire safety and communal area management by specifically prohibiting the storage, parking, charging, or use of e-bikes, e-scooters, and mobility scooters within communal areas, alongside existing measures to keep shared spaces and escape routes clear, safe, and accessible for all residents.

Why your views matter

Your feedback will help us understand your views on the proposed Communal Areas and Private Balcony Storage Policy and take them into account before adopting the policy.

If you require assistance in another language, or a paper copy of the survey sent to you, please email housingconsult@rbkc.gov.uk