Enhanced fire safety measures proposed for council homes

04 November 2025

North Northamptonshire Council is considering enhanced fire safety measures to ensure the highest standards of safety for tenants living in council-owned homes.

At its meeting on 11 November 2025, the council’s Executive will review a proposed Housing Fire Safety Policy, developed in consultation with tenants and Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service. 

The policy outlines how the council will meet its legal responsibilities and ensure consistent fire safety standards across its housing stock.

The council owns and manages over 8,000 homes, primarily in Corby and Kettering, and is responsible for complying with statutory health and safety requirements, including fire safety. The proposed measures include annual fire risk assessments, enhanced fire safety precautions, and clear management arrangements for communal areas.

The policy builds on the Housing Compliance Policy, adopted in November 2024, and will apply to all council housing tenants and leaseholders, their household and visitors.

A key feature of the policy is the introduction of a sterile area approach in communal spaces. Items left in shared areas can create clutter, pose trip hazards, and obstruct emergency exits, potentially delaying emergency services during a fire. Keeping these areas clear is essential to maintaining safe and accessible escape routes.

The council is committed to supporting tenants through the transition, and information and guidance will be provided to help residents understand the changes and feel confident in maintaining safe shared spaces. This collaborative approach will help the council meet its statutory duties while promoting a culture of fire awareness and responsibility.

We’re committed to ensuring we have robust safety measures in place and comply with all legislation designed to keep tenants safe in their homes and improve their quality of living. This policy will aim to protect people and property through avoiding fire, where possible, and minimising the impact of fire if it occurs. It also aims to increase residents’ knowledge of how to be fire aware and promote a sense of responsibility towards fire safety.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Housing

If approved, the Housing Fire Safety Policy will be reviewed every two years to ensure it remains up to date and effective.