Tenant safety during building works on schemes | Tenant news

Building works sometimes need to take place in your home or around your scheme to keep it safe and comfortable.

The work can include things like repairs, improvements, or safety checks, and may involve scaffolding, machinery, or materials being moved around.

Here’s what you need to know to stay safe while building work is happening.

Spotting risks

Before any work starts, builders will usually check the area for anything that could be unsafe, such as blocked walkways, uneven floors, loose materials, or trip hazards.

They also carry out safety checks on things like gas appliances, electrical systems, plumbing, and fire safety equipment, as well as checking for damp and mould issues.

If any risks are spotted, steps are taken to reduce them. Barriers and warning signs are put up, walkways may be covered, and emergency exits are kept clear to help you move safely around the scheme.

In some cases, such as when damp or mould is found, work may be delayed until the problem is fixed so it can be done safely.

If you see anything that doesn’t look right, report it to us straight away by contacting Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 so it can be sorted quickly.

Moving around safely

Building work can sometimes be noisy or get in the way of your usual routines.

Paths may be blocked, doors might be temporarily closed, or machinery could be moving around communal areas.

Blocked paths or closed doors can make it harder for tenants with mobility needs and wheelchair users to move around, so we make sure alternative routes are available and clearly marked.

We’ll plan the work carefully to keep disruption to a minimum and make sure everyone on the scheme stays safe.

Communal areas

During building works, some communal areas may need to be fenced off or blocked to keep everyone safe.

Tools, machinery, and building materials are stored securely when not in use, but it’s important to stay out of areas you’ve been told to avoid, even if they look empty, as hazards could still be present.

If building works will be taking place on your scheme, Habinteg will make sure you know what’s happening, when it will take place, and how it might affect your home and communal areas.

We’ll let you know what work is happening, how long it is expected to take, and if there are any changes to the plan.

Updates may come through letters, notices, or texts to help you plan your day and avoid work areas.

Reporting accidents

If anyone has an accident during building work, it’s important to tell us straight away.

Trips, falls, or any problems with tools, machinery, or materials should all be reported to our Customer Services Team at Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 or email direct@habinteg.org.uk. Letting us know quickly helps keep the area safer for everyone.

In an emergency, such as a fire or gas leak, call 999 immediately and follow the safety signs to the nearest safe exit.

If you spot any hazards during the work or need help with anything related to the building work, contact our Customer Services Team on 0300 365 3100 or speak to your Neighbourhood Coordinator.

For more information on Health and Safety visit www.habinteg.org.uk/health-and-safety.

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