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Objects in a shared passage: access, safety and agreements

 

A bicycle, cupboard or boxes in a corridor can obstruct everyday access and an escape route. How can you get the obstruction addressed and agree safe storage?

 

Identify the blocked route and report it to the building manager. Safety should not depend on a prolonged disagreement between residents.

 

This guide applies to England.

 

 

Where are the things and what is being obstructed?

 

Give the exact location: corridor, stairs, shared access balcony, store or private path. Explain whether a wheelchair cannot pass, a door cannot open or close properly, or an exit is obstructed.

 

Record the situation without handling unfamiliar items. A temporary delivery and ongoing storage need different arrangements, but either can create a hazard.

 

 

Why is “someone can still get past” not enough?

 

Keep communal escape routes and exits clear. Ask the building manager to identify a safe storage area.

 

Ask the responsible building manager to assess the fire-safety rules. A gap that appears wide enough does not by itself establish that storage is safe; the items may also contribute to smoke or fire spread.

 

 

How do you discuss it?

 

A calm opening

“The boxes beside the stairs make it difficult to pass with our pushchair. Could they be moved to an approved storage area? I’ll also ask the building manager to clarify what is safe here.”

 

Indicate what is needed now

Report an obstructed escape route or a door that cannot close promptly. In an emergency, prioritise safety and emergency help rather than trying to negotiate first.

 

 

What solutions can you explore?

 

A permitted storage space

Ask where bikes, tools or boxes can be stored safely. Moving them to another corridor or fire exit does not solve the problem.

 

Clear information from the building manager

Ask for a written explanation for all residents about storage, accessibility and reporting. A clear rule prevents each resident from having to negotiate individually.

 

An agreement on deliveries

For deliveries and removals, agree how access will stay clear and who will collect items promptly. Residents’ arrangements cannot override fire-safety requirements.

 

 

 

Which rules apply in England?

 

Government fire safety guidance says to keep communal exits clear. Ask the responsible building manager which routes must remain clear and where items can be stored.

 

What if the situation comes back?

 

Report an obstruction promptly with its exact location. Let the manager handle removal or provide a safe alternative.

 

Sources and review date

Guide reviewed on 7 November 2026.

 

GOV.UK — Fire safety in shared or rented accommodation

 

Keep the next step manageable

Use the free incident diary for a few representative observations, any agreement and improvements. If you need outside help, see Who can help. State what happened, what you have tried and what you are asking the recipient to do. You do not have to keep approaching the neighbour if contact feels unsafe.

 

Would you like to write to your neighbours?

 

On the situation page you can see the CalmNotes bundle, its contents and the other support options.