DIO share guidance on the use of outdoor communal spaces for Service Family Accommodation tenants.
Feedback from the DIO SFA roadshows highlighted families wish to be able enjoy communal spaces and gardens to the front of their properties. In many cases, these areas provide a valuable space for garden furniture and play equipment.
DIO has a duty to ensure that communal areas are safe, however they are keen to see a common-sense approach that balances safety and convenience for families.
The SFA Consumer Charter announced in April sets out our commitment to empower families and to enable you to take decisions about your home.
For the safety and enjoyment of all, please note the following advice regarding the use of outdoor communal spaces:
- Families are encouraged to use and to enjoy gardens and communal areas.
- Communal areas can be used for families to gather and socialise, provided this does not disturb other neighbours.
- Families have the choice to use items (such as garden furniture) in external communal areas. If families wish for our teams to carry out ground maintenance, we kindly request items are removed when not in use (as they will need access to a clear area to carry out the work). However, if families find enjoyment and pride in maintaining the area themselves, they are welcome to keep their items out.
- Please talk to your Housing Officer regarding larger items that are fixed and cannot be easily removed such as trampolines, swing sets, bike stores etc that you wish to place in communal areas.
- Items that pose an immediate health and safety risk to others such as rope swings, and tree houses may be removed without notice to ensure the safety of all.
Safety in flats or apartments: Indoor communal areas that are thoroughfares and lead to fire escapes (e.g. stairwells and hallways) should be kept clear of personal items such as bikes, as they could pose a hazard in the event of fire. Items stored in fire escapes may be removed without notice.
For any queries related to the use of communal space or to find your local housing officer, please contact the Pinnacle helpdesk.
