Multi-Occupancy Security Guide¶

Security guide for UK flats, apartments, and HMOs covering communal door access, intercom systems, parcel security, and shared responsibility for building security.

Communal Security Systems¶

Multi-occupancy buildings require coordinated security that individual residents cannot manage alone. The communal front door is the primary security barrier. Check that the door closes fully and self-locks on every opening. The door closer should be adjusted so the door closes within 5-10 seconds. The lock should be a BS 3621 mortice deadlock or magnetic lock linked to the intercom system. Intercom systems should include video functionality. Audio-only intercoms make verification difficult. Video intercoms from Hikvision, Ring, and Aiphone range from 150-600 for multi-tenant systems. Access control should use fobs or keypads rather than keys which are easily copied. Fob systems allow deactivation of lost fobs without changing locks.

Individual Flat Security Measures¶

Each flat should have additional security independent of the communal system. Fit a door viewer with 180-degree wide-angle lens at eye height. Fit a door chain or limiter. For the flat door, the lock should be at least BS 3621 or equivalent. If the flat door opens onto a communal hallway, fit a door closer to ensure it self-locks. Parcel security is a growing concern in multi-occupancy buildings. Use a parcel box or secure delivery locker for the building. Amazon Hub and Doddle offer delivery alternatives. Neighbourhood Watch schemes in apartment buildings coordinate communication between residents and with building management. Report security concerns: broken communal doors, faulty intercoms, unfamiliar people in hallways, propped-open fire doors.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Measure	Communal Building	Individual Flat	Annual Cost
Door lock	Magnetic lock 500-2000	BS 3621 deadlock 40-120	Communal: shared
Access system	Fob/keypad 300-1000	Video viewer 50-100	Fobs: 5 each
Intercom	Video intercom 150-600	Smart viewer 100-200	Service: 50-100
Parcel security	Parcel box 100-300	Delivery locker 200-500	One-time cost
CCTV communal	Lobby camera 200-500	Doorbell camera 60-150	Annual review

FAQ¶

Who is responsible for communal door security in a UK flat?: The building management company or landlord is responsible for communal doors and access systems. Report any faults immediately in writing. Residents share responsibility for not propping doors open.
Can I install my own lock on a flat door?: Check your lease agreement first. Most leases allow additional locks but prohibit changing the main lock without landlord permission. A door chain or limiter is usually permitted without consent.
How do parcel deliveries work securely in apartment buildings?: Use parcel boxes, delivery lockers, or Amazon Hub for secure deliveries. Alternatively, arrange delivery to a workplace or neighbour. Never leave delivery instructions that involve leaving parcels in communal areas. For more information see our Home Office Security Guide UK.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the UK Government Building Regulations.