Communal area with own exits for each flat

[Guest Flathelp]

Hi,

I live in a flat which is shared in a communal area with one other flat.  Both flats have separate rear exits which are clear to our own private gardens.  We recently have been informed by the council that we need to consider what we have in the communal area.  We currently have a few ornaments (ceramic/metal), doormats, rugs, blinds, net curtains, and a water butt (used for front communal garden).  I am wondering what regulations need to be followed.  I have discussed with the other neighbour in regards to upgrading what we can to make it flame retardant, but wondering what the specification needs to be? I have autism, so please don’t be shy in sharing specific details, as this helps me more. 
 

thanks in advance

 

[AnthonyB]

It wouldn't surprise me if the council does a kneejerk reaction and 'bans' everything, but having a second exit and being presumably ground floor, then none of that is really an issue - even in larger blocks the concept of ;managed use' exists to allow at least some of these.

See also - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-in-purpose-built-blocks-of-flats