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Understanding some of the concepts around tower blocks.

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Directory of Residents’ Action Groups

Discover residents' action groups, and what they have achieved. Add your own action group to our directory.
A fire extinguisher hanging on a plain wall A fire extinguisher hanging on a plain wall

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Fire safety and the law in Scottish tower blocks

What laws protect social tower block tenants from fire in Scotland?

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Glossary

Definitions of the words and phrases around tower block safety and maintenance.

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How can my local councillor help?

Anne Clarke is a councillor in the London Borough of Barnet. We ask her about her experiences in supporting residents in her area with housing and disrepair problems
A view across Edinburgh, with Dumbiedykes social housing in the foreground A view across Edinburgh, with Dumbiedykes social housing in the foreground

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What are social landlords’ obligations in Scotland?

A number of laws apply to landlords of social housing. These ensure that you home is safe, clean and kept in repair.
A towerblock that is not being kept in good repair A towerblock that is not being kept in good repair

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What does disrepair mean?

‘Disrepair’ is the opposite of keeping a property in good condition. It means the landlord is allowing problems to develop, and not doing anything about it.  By law, your landlord must make sure that your residence is in a good state of repair. This includes: keeping the structure (walls, roof, floors etc) safe and sound.  […]
A woman holding a clipboard and looking at fire safety signs. Image by Professor Paul Wenham-Clarke A woman holding a clipboard and looking at fire safety signs. Image by Professor Paul Wenham-Clarke

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What is a fire risk assessment?

Every tower block should have regular Fire Risk Assessments - they're a legal requirement. But what does it mean for you, the tenant?
A man checking the safety of a window in a tower block. Image by Professor Paul Wenham-Clarke A man checking the safety of a window in a tower block. Image by Professor Paul Wenham-Clarke

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What is a Responsible Person?

Have you seen a mention of a 'responsible person'? What does it mean? It's not just a description of a character; it's actually a role defined by fire safety law.

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What is the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018?

What does 'fitness for human habitation' mean? It's the name of a law that protects tenants from having to live in properties that are unsafe or unhealthy.