Are additional child safety measures required?

Are additional child safety measures required?

0:03 AM, 25th September 2023, About 8 months ago 12

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Hello, I have a flat where access to the private front door is off the street. Once inside, there is a small shoe storage area then a flight of stairs to all the flat-level living accommodations above.

The tenant has two small children (aged 5 and 6) . At the top of the stairs, she has fitted a stairgate.

The tenant now states the eldest child is going downstairs and opening the front door himself. The main door lock is of course a thumb-turn lock and at least over halfway up the door itself. (I suspect the child is unlocking it as they are coming down the stairs and reaching across to the door as the lock is not possible to reach from standing on the hallway floor alone)

The tenant has now asked I fit another lock. I’m not sure this is my full responsibility and I don’t think this is the solution as if they can open one, they can open another and of course, there has to be a quick release mechanism without the use of a key.

Any ideas anyone?

Reluctant landlord


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Comments

RoseD

12:48 PM, 26th September 2023, About 8 months ago

Reply to the comment left by RoseD at 25/09/2023 - 20:15
Precisely why I was cautious in response as know opinions around children vary hugely and opens up a huge debate of ifs/whys etc. I'm a parent too so know only too well what little one's get up to. What would be sensible (as already detailed) is to work with the tenant to look at options to prevent any possible injury or harm but that is also a parental responsibility so where exactly do you draw the line, which I think was Reluctant Landlords point. Maybe agree a half share in any cost involved.

Reluctant Landlord

13:22 PM, 26th September 2023, About 8 months ago

All. I have placed the responsibility firmly back in the tenants hands. I have suggested the use of the stairgate at the top of the stairs (which the tenant put in) should be closed and locked at times when the child is in the property. I have sent her a link to portable door locks (like you get for hotel rooms) so that nothing is fixed to the door itself so as not to hinder any proper exit in case of emergency at any time and of course she can use on other doors as she sees fit (if the kid also getting into a kitchen at night etc for example).
A perfect instant solution that requires no work, no tools. no damage to the door nor frame but stops them opening the door.

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