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Reducing health and safety risks in your home

Some problems in your home can affect your health or safety. Here we explain how to reduce risks and when to report a problem to us. 

Report repair or mould issues as soon as possible. If a reported issue gets worse, call us on 020 7974 4444.   

Gas emergencies  

Gas leaks and other gas hazards can create serious safety risks in your home or building.  Make sure you: 

  • allow access for gas boilers, fires and other gas appliances to be serviced, inspected or repaired when needed 
  • keep boiler cupboards, vents and flues free from obstruction 
  • test your carbon monoxide alarm regularly and replace batteries when needed 
  • do not move or alter gas appliances, pipework or meters 
  • look for signs that an appliance may not be working safely, such as sooty marks, yellow or orange flames, or excessive condensation  

Report gas safety concerns immediately. 

Damp and mould 

Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp places. It can be caused by condensation and leaks.  

To reduce the risk of mould: 

  • keep your home warm where it is safe and affordable to do so 
  • open windows or use extractor fans when cooking, bathing, showering, or drying clothes 
  • leave a small gap (where possible) between furniture and walls that face outside to improve airflow 
  • wipe any condensation off windows and walls 
  • keep air vents clear so air can circulate around your home 

Report any damp, condensation, or mould that is worsening or spreading within your home. 

Learn more about:

If you cannot keep your home warm  

A home that’s too cold can affect your health, especially if you’re older, very young or have a health condition. 

In cold weather: 

  • keep your home warm, where it is safe and affordable to do so 
  • prioritise heating rooms where you spend most of your time, such as a living room or bedroom 
  • only use safe heating appliances and do not use the oven to heat your home 

Report heating issues as soon as possible. 

Use the following links to access support with energy costs: 

If your home is too hot  

A home that‘s too hot can increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illness. This can have a greater effect on: 

  • older people 
  • babies and young children 
  • people with long-term health conditions 

In hot weather: 

  • keep blinds and curtains closed during peak sunshine hours to help keep your home cool 
  • open windows on opposite sides of your home to allow cooler air to flow through 
  • keep windows closed during the hottest part of the day to prevent heat from entering your home 
  • turn off unnecessary appliances, as they can generate additional heat 
  • stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty 

Report heating or ventilation issues as soon as possible. 

Learn more about keeping your home cool in hot weather. 

Reducing the risk of falls  

Hazards in your home can cause trips, slips and falls. These are more likely to cause injuries to: 

  • older people 
  • young children  
  • people with mobility issues 

You should: 

  • keep floors, stairs and doorways clear of clutter and anything that could cause someone to trip 
  • use handrails and any prescribed mobility aids to support safe movement around your home 
  • supervise young children around windows, balconies, stairs, and other potential fall hazards 

Report any damage to paths, floors, balconies or communal walkways. 

Contact your Neighbourhood Housing Officer if there is a build-up of rubbish in communal areas. 

If you need support to remain independent at home: 

Reducing the risk of fire 

Fire can spread quickly, so it’s important to reduce the risk. You should make sure you can leave your home safely if there’s a fire.  

To reduce the risk of fire: 

  • do not charge e-bikes, e-scooters or electric wheelchairs in communal areas 
  • keep communal areas clear of belongings  
  • do not remove fire doors or wedge them open 
  • do not use BBQs 

Report a broken fire alarm or fire door by Live Chat. It could save your life. 

Tell us if you would need help to leave your home in a fire. We may also complete a Person-Centred Fire Risk Assessment. 

Electrical safety advice 

Damaged wiring, faulty sockets and unsafe electrical appliances can put you and your household at risk.  

Do not: 

  • use electrical appliances, sockets or light fittings that are damaged, faulty or overheating 
  • touch exposed wiring or attempt DIY electrical repairs 
  • overload sockets with multiple adaptors or extension leads 
  • keep electrical appliances near water  

Report electrical issues as soon as possible including: 

  • damaged wiring 
  • faulty sockets 
  • leaks or water damage affecting electrics 

Structural damage and falling parts of the building 

Structural damage can make parts of your home or building unsafe. If you notice signs of structural damage: 

  • stay away from any area with large cracks, a sagging ceiling, loose materials or building material that’s fallen or could fall 
  • do not use floors, balconies or other parts of the building that you think may be unsafe 
  • do not attempt to repair, alter, or interfere with building structures yourself 
  • keep children and vulnerable household members away from any areas that may present a structural safety risk 

Report structural issues as soon as possible including: 

  • large cracks 
  • sagging or damaged ceilings 
  • damaged balconies 
  • any part of the building that is loose, leaning or could fall 

Pest control 

Rats, mice, insects and other pests can spread germs, damage your home. Pests can become difficult to control if left untreated. 

Help prevent pests by storing food in sealed containers and getting rid of household waste responsibly. 

Report signs of pests as soon as possible so we can investigate and take the right action. You’ll need to provide access to your home for pest control inspections and treatment appointments.