Leaseholders' handbook - the safety and security of your home

Fire and detecting smoke

We recommend that you fit a smoke detector in your property if you do not already have one. We also strongly recommend that you test the battery regularly.

Home safety and using bottles and containers

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) is concerned about the dangers of people using gas bottles in their homes. The LFB suggests that people take the following safety precautions.

"In blocks that have no main gas supply, gas bottles should not be used at any time. These gas bottles are most commonly used in mobile gas heaters but are also used with some cooking appliances.

You are forbidden in your property to use any appliance that relies on these gas bottles. A leak from one of them could cause an explosion and extensive damage to the structure of the building.

Should you require extra heating in the cold weather we recommend you use an electric appliance instead."

If you are going away

If you are leaving your home empty for a period of time:

• Turn off the gas, electricity and water supplies to your home; and
• leave your home securely locked and check that all windows are closed.

Entry-phone systems

Some blocks in the borough are fitted with entry-phone systems, which make sure that only authorised people can get into the block and increase the security of your flat.

Please make sure you do not let anyone who is unknown to you into your block.

If there are any problems with the door-entry system, please report them immediately to the repairs service.

Getting rid of rubbish

If your block has a rubbish chute, it is vital for the health and hygiene of all the residents that you wrap your rubbish in small bundles that will not get stuck on the way down.

Do not leave rubbish in the shared corridors or in the chute rooms as it can cause a fire, attract insects or rodents, or cause a nuisance to your neighbours.

You can leave bulky items next to the bin rooms and the cleaning contractor will get rid of them.

You can also report them to Brent Council's Streetcare department on 020 8937 5050. Officers will arrange for your items to be collected up to three times a year free of charge.

Condensation

Condensation can form when warm air meets a cold surface, and is commonly caused by steam, tumble dryers or heating.

You can prevent condensation by allowing the warm, moist air to escape by opening windows or ventilators, or by keeping bathroom and kitchen doors shut, especially when cooking, washing or bathing.

If you find patches of mould on the walls or your house feels damp, condensation may be the cause.

For more information about condensation, please contact the leasehold management team on 020 8937 2601.