Forum: Take a balanced approach to HDB corridor clutter

I refer to the letter “Clamp down on residents blocking common corridors with items” (Oct 21).

While I share the writer’s concerns about fire safety, I disagree with his call for a total ban on placing all personal belongings outside residents’ flats.

Many elderly residents live in small HDB flats with limited storage space. Temporary placement of wet laundry on a foldable rack, for instance, may be a practical necessity. Some residents may also struggle to accommodate bulky personal belongings such as expensive bicycles inside their homes.

The issue should not be whether all items are prohibited, but whether they create genuine fire hazards or obstruct passageways, doorways and access for emergency services.

A reasonable balance is possible. Residents should be allowed limited use of common corridors where safety requirements are met, including maintaining the required clear passage width and ensuring that items can be removed promptly when necessary. Staircases, landings and firefighting equipment must remain unobstructed at all times.

Of course, convenience must never take precedence over safety. Hazardous or obstructive items should be removed promptly, with appropriate penalties for repeated violations.

Rather than imposing a blanket ban, the authorities should adopt a practical, proportionate approach that protects lives while recognising residents’ differing circumstances.

Safety and consideration for neighbours must come first, but reasonable accommodation should not be ruled out.

Ng Choon Lai