Balconies are wonderful spots to enjoy the sun and fresh air. To ensure everyone’s safety, here’s a simple guide on what you can and can’t keep on your balcony:
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Items to keep off your balcony for a safer and more enjoyable space
- Anything flammable
- Barbeques
- Wooden or paper items
- Large furniture (small tables and chairs are okay)
- Decorating materials
- Bags of rubbish
- Cooking oil, cooking equipment, or oil cans
- Electrical items, including fridge/freezers or tumble dryers
- Exercise equipment
- Permanent structures like sheds or cupboards
- Patio heaters or gas canisters
- Motorbikes, electric bikes, e-bikes (anything with a lithium battery)
- Children's play equipment (including trampolines)
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Items that won’t affect the safety of your balcony
- Small potted plants in non-combustible pots
- Small window boxes
- Low-level clothes airers that are lower than the handrails
- A small table and chairs
Remember to place items away from the edge to prevent them from falling off.
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Important things to consider when using your balcony
- Never store flammable items on your balcony.
- Lighting fires, including disposable barbeques, is unsafe.
- Patio heaters are not suitable for balcony use.
- Avoid throwing things from your balcony to ensure the safety of those below
- Discard cigarettes carefully and never throw them off the balcony.
- Fireworks are not appropriate for use on balconies.
- Hanging clothing, rugs, or mats over the railings is not recommended.
- Screening your balcony with bamboo or straw matting is not safe.
- Keep items away from the edge to prevent falls.
- Always supervise young children.
- Minimise fire by keeping your balcony clutter-free.
- Make use of any bike storage areas in your building if they are available.
- Make sure communal areas are clear by keeping items inside your home.
If you have any questions about balcony safety or what items can be stored, please contact our building safety team. We’re here to help!