Welcome to Your Shared Spaces

Shared spaces are areas in your building or estate that everyone uses – such as hallways, stairwells, entrances, gardens, bin stores, and other communal areas. These spaces help keep our homes safe, comfortable, and welcoming for everyone.

The information below is a simple guide to help you understand our shared responsibilities and how we manage the space together.

Cleaning Specifications

Click here to find out more.

Keeping Your Community Clean and Tidy

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Communal Grounds Maintenance

Click here to find out more

Here are some quick answers to common questions.

Using Shared Spaces

• Can I use all the shared areas?

  Yes! Any spaces marked as communal are for all residents to enjoy.

• Can my visitors use them too?

  Yes, visitors are welcome. Please just make sure they follow the same rules as residents.

• Are there times when certain areas are closed?

  Some areas—like lounges, laundry rooms, or meeting rooms—may have set opening times. Everything else is usually open all day.

Cleaning & Repairs

• How often are communal areas cleaned?

  Cleaning depends on your building. Hallways are usually cleaned weekly, and gardens are maintained throughout the year.

• How do I report something that’s broken?

  Let us know through our usual contact channels—phone, email, or the online portal.

• How long will the repair take?

  Urgent problems are dealt with quickly. Routine repairs may take a little longer, but we’ll keep you updated.

Safety & Security

• Why can’t I leave items in hallways?

  It’s all about safety. Things like bikes, prams, or shoes can block escape routes and cause fire hazards.

• What if I notice a safety issue?

  Please report it straight away—things like damaged fire doors, alarms not working, or blocked exits.

• Why do some doors close automatically or stay locked?

  This helps keep everyone safe and secure and prevents fire or smoke spreading.

• What if I see someone I don’t recognise?

  If you feel comfortable, you can politely ask who they’re visiting. If not, just let us know.

Accessibility

• What if I struggle to use a shared area?

  If something is hard to access—like a heavy door or stairs—contact us. We may be able to help with adjustments.

• Who fixes the lifts?

  Specialist contractors do. If the lift stops working, please tell us so we can get it repaired quickly.

Gardens, Parking & Outdoor Spaces

• Who looks after the gardens?

  Our grounds team keeps shared outdoor areas tidy as part of your service charge.

• Can I plant flowers myself?

  Please ask us first—we want to make sure everything stays safe and consistent.

• Who can use visitor parking?

  Visitor bays are for short stays only. Residents should use their own spaces if they have one.

• Who is responsible for my front garden maintenance? E.g. cutting the grass

  Looking after your front garden is part of your responsibility as an ateb customer. This includes maintaining areas such as grass, bushes, and any plants or flowers to help keep your home and community looking its best.

  If you’d prefer some support, you can arrange this directly with our trusted third-party contractor. They’re already vetted and approved, giving you peace of mind.

  To find out more or request their details, please contact [email protected].

   

   

Service Charges

• What do my service charges pay for?

  Things like communal cleaning, electricity for shared lighting, garden maintenance, lift servicing, and fire safety checks.

• Why has my charge changed this year?

  Costs can go up or down depending on things like contractor prices and utility bills.

Living Well Together

• What if someone is misusing shared areas?

  If you notice damage, mess, or antisocial behaviour, please report it. We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable.

• Can people smoke or vape here?

  Not inside any shared indoor areas or directly outside entrances.

• Who decides how shared spaces are used?

  We consider resident feedback, safety rules, and practical needs. Your suggestions are always welcome.

Bins & Recycling

• Where do I put my rubbish?

  Use the bins in your communal bin store. If the labels aren’t clear, let us know.

• What about fly-tipping?

  Please report it so we can deal with it quickly.