As part of our ongoing efforts to maintain a safe living environment for everyone at East Village, we’re making some important changes to how our communal areas are managed. In line with updated fire safety regulations, residents are advised that the following items are strictly banned from all communal areas:

• Ring doorbells
• Doormats
• Posters/pictures on doors and walls

This is in addition to electric bikes and scooters which are already prohibited in communal areas of all buildings at East Village. This includes the storage and charging of e-bikes and e-scooters in lobbies, corridors, stairwells, car parks and bike cages.

This decision has been made in line with our ‘zero tolerance’ fire safety policy, which prohibits the storage of personal items in common areas which form part of the escape route. These  areas must be kept completely clear to ensure they remain free of combustible materials, ignition sources, and obstructions in event of an emergency.

This zero tolerance approach is recognised by enforcing authorities and insisted upon by the London Fire Brigade. It plays a crucial role in:

• Preventing accidental fires
• Removing potential fuel sources
• Ensuring quick and safe evacuation

We strongly encourage all residents to strictly follow these guidelines.

No exceptions will be made.

Adhering to this notice will help to keep you, your family and your neighbours safe. We thank you for your cooperation and support.

If you have any questions regarding staying safe in your apartment, please email the EVML team at [email protected].

Lithium batteries power many of the devices we use every day – phones, laptops, e-bikes and even some white goods. Therefore, we understand that every home at East Village will have a number of items powered by lithium batteries.

However, when not used correctly, they can become a fire risk.

Here’s what everyone at East Village should know about keeping safe while using lithium batteries in your home.

Charging E-Bikes and E-Scooters

Most fires involving e-bikes or e-scooters start during charging, often in homes.

At East Village, there is a complete ban on storing and charging e-bikes and e-scooters in communal spaces. This includes lobbies, corridors, stairwells, car parks and bike cages. Not only can they pose a fire risk but could block the escape route in an emergency. Our team of building managers check the buildings daily to ensure corridors and escape routes are clear.

We also strongly encourage all residents to avoid storing or charging e-bikes/scooters inside their apartment.

To stay safe:

• Let the battery cool after use before charging, and keep it in a cool, well-ventilated area.
• Don’t leave batteries charging unattended or overnight.
• Don’t charge your battery near flammable or combustible materials.
• Make sure your charger and battery meet UK safety standards and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging the battery.
• Regularly check your battery for signs of damage and don’t continue to use it if it is damaged.

Signs Your Battery Could Be Damaged

If you notice any of these signs, stop using the device immediately:

• Swelling or bulging in the battery
• Leaking, hissing or cracking noises
• A strong, unusual smell
• The battery feels extremely hot to touch
• The device is taking far longer than normal to charge – or not charging at all
• Smoke – if this happens, a fire may have already started. Please leave your apartment and call 999.

Do not try to remove or repair a faulty battery yourself.

Other Safety Advice

Always Use the Right Chargers

• Only use the charger that came with your device. The original charger is designed specifically for that battery.
• If you need a replacement, buy from a reputable seller and choose a genuine branded product (ideally the product manufacturer). Chargers from other companies (which are often much cheaper) may look similar but can increase the risk of causing fire.
• Avoid leaving devices plugged in overnight or after they’re fully charged – this increases the risk of overheating and fire.

Be Aware of How You Store and Use Batteries

• Keep batteries away from very hot or cold temperatures – don’t store them near radiators or windows.
• Don’t charge on soft surfaces like beds or sofas. Use a hard, flat surface so heat can escape more easily.
• Make sure chargers and devices are uncovered while in use to prevent them from overheating, this includes any wires.
• Protect batteries from damage – don’t place heavy items on top of them, drop/throw them, or expose them to water.

General Electrical Safety Tips

It’s not just batteries you need to be careful with. Here’s some essential advice for all the electrical devices and appliances you may have within your home:

• Buy electrical appliances with a British or European safety mark.
• Avoid overloading sockets and stick to one plug per socket for high-powered items.
• Use the correct fuse – if in doubt, check LFB’s online fuse guide.
• Clean tumble dryer filters regularly and let hair tools cool on heatproof surfaces.
• Unwind extension cables fully to prevent overheating.
• Register white goods with the manufacturer – this way, you’ll be notified if there’s a safety recall.
• Talk to your household about fire safety – make sure children’s devices and chargers are in good condition and everyone knows how to stay safe around electrics.

Your Safety, Our Priority

Following this guidance doesn’t just protect your own home – it protects your neighbours’ too.

Take a moment to check your devices, chargers, and sockets. Share this advice with others in your building. And remember if you ever spot signs of battery failure, don’t take risks – switch it off, get help, and stay safe.

For more fire safety tips, visit the London Fire Brigade website.

If you have any questions regarding staying safe in your apartment, please email the EVML team at [email protected].