We’re committed to making sure your home is safe, secure and well maintained. Here’s how we help – and what you can do too.
If you smell gas
If you think there’s a gas leak or carbon monoxide is escaping from an appliance, call Northern Gas Networks immediately on 0800 111 999 (Freephone, 24/7).
While you wait:
- turn off the gas at the meter
- open doors and windows
- don’t use electrical switches
- put out any naked flames
- don’t smoke or light matches
- open security doors manually
- call from outside the property
Gas and electrical checks
We carry out free safety checks to make sure your appliances are safe. It’s a legal requirement, and we’ll contact you when your service is due.
Please make sure someone is home for the appointment – or let us know if you need to rearrange.
Keeping you safe in your home
Knowing how to manage asbestos, electrics and water hygiene, and keeping escape routes clear, helps us work together to keep your home safe.
For more information on preventing fires and keeping your home safe, visit our fire safety page.
Some older homes may contain asbestos – but it’s safe if left undisturbed. If you notice any damage to your home, let us know straight away.
Please don’t carry out structural changes or improvements without our permission.
Fake products
Counterfeit electrical items may look like a bargain, but they often contain faulty parts that can overheat or cause electric shocks. Always check for a British safety mark before buying.
Socket overload
Don’t overload plug sockets. Extension leads have a limit – check the amp rating and avoid plugging in too many devices.
Power cuts can happen for a few reasons, including:
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blown lightbulbs
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faulty appliances or leads
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using too many appliances at once
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overloaded circuits
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unclean or overfilled appliances
You can usually reset your electricity at the consumer unit (near your meter). If it has trip switches, check which one has flipped to ‘off’ and switch it back on.
If the power keeps cutting out:
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Unplug everything on the affected circuit
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Reset the switch
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Plug items back in one at a time
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If one causes the power to trip again, leave it unplugged and get it checked by a qualified electrician
If your electrics still won’t reset, please contact us.
Legionella bacteria can grow in water systems and cause Legionnaires’ disease – a serious lung infection. It’s rare, but there are simple steps you can take to reduce the risk.
Everyone has a role to play in keeping communal areas safe and clear. Items left in corridors, staircases or landings can block escape routes or increase fire risk.
Please keep these areas free from:
- pictures or decorations (check with us if you live in extra care or sheltered housing)
- doormats, plants, ornaments or ramps
- furniture
- clothing
- mobility scooters or bikes
- rubbish or unwanted items
- personal items like wheelchairs or shopping trolleys.
If items aren’t removed within the time we’ve agreed, we may need to remove them to keep everyone safe.
Home contents insurance
Accidents can happen. We recommend taking out home contents insurance to protect your belongings. We offer tailored schemes for Thirteen customers, or you can choose your own provider.
Health and safety responsibilities
Matt Forrest, our chief executive, has overall responsibility for ensuring Thirteen is legal, safe and compliant.
Our health and safety lead is Peter Taylor, head of health and safety. Peter is also responsible for building safety and is supported by our health and safety committee and building safety groups.
Need advice?
If you have any questions about home or fire safety, please contact our Building Safety Team.