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Does anyone have any ideas of how I can make the stairs from my flat, to the garden- safer?

+201 votes
by (1.1k points)
Does anyone have any ideas of how I can make the stairs from my flat, to the garden- safer? I have a 5 yr old and I feel like I’m going to have to hold her hand down the stairs, until she’s 25!?  
Does anyone have any ideas of how I can make the stairs from my flat, to the garden- safer?

185 Answers

+42 votes
by (1.2k points)
 
Best answer
How old are all the people saying slide. how do you get back up. Grandma comes over, wants to have a fag In the garden, oh just pop yourself down this slide gran.  
by (1.7k points)
I love this! Thats just made my day xx
+99 votes
by (750 points)
Maybe get some bamboo fencing for the sides and some lights. Not much you can do really x
by (850 points)
@texas Ellen I don’t think that would be strong enough although it would look nice.  
+34 votes
by (1k points)
Timber either wise following rails top and bottom then feather each side
+88 votes
by (1k points)
So like box the rail in
+67 votes
by (1.1k points)
They are awful, can you put a slide next to them sorry xx
by (1.1k points)
@mousey ‍♀️
+26 votes
by (740 points)
Get a slide along one side  
by (1.1k points)
@conventional ‍♀️
+36 votes
by (1.1k points)
Can you put a non slip rubber mat on the stairs and spindles on the hand rails?  
by (850 points)
@effy53 I think I would worry more about her falling thru the side.  
by (1.1k points)
@typewrite1840 that’s why I suggested spindles. I was thinking rubber mats to reduce the chance of slipping and for some cushioning if anyone did slip.  
+79 votes
by (830 points)
25 she will prob be falling up them after a night out  
+41 votes
by (1.6k points)
If you rent, then the stairs are dangerous and need proper handrail? Paint white paint on each step maybe help.  
by (1.1k points)
@ringmaster5 they are dangerous- but this is what comes with private renting ‍♀️
by (1.6k points)
Well, I'm a landlady and certainly wouldn't leave the stairs like that.  
by (920 points)
@texas i think this would fall under a healthy and safety breach. I would request it be sorted to a safe standard. She doesn’t want to be liable for a potential accident or death.  
by (650 points)
@pokelogan792 need to be careful, I mentioned a safety breach due to electrics with a landlord once and got evicted 3 days later. Was only in a month. Cost more for me to fight it.  
by (920 points)
@caduceus wow! That’s horrific!  
by (650 points)
@pokelogan792 Yeah it was gutting. I had fled my own home from an abusive husband and was first time renting, nearly put me off for life. But you get good and bad on both sides.  
by (650 points)
@pokelogan792 I should mention that it was illegal what they did but once you’re out and away (moving costs, new deposits etc) you still have to prove in my case, that her reason for eviction to sell the property wasn’t legitimate
by (920 points)
@caduceus some people’s have no consciences, terrible.  
by (650 points)
@pokelogan792 all good now, my son and I have our own wee house and great wee garden. This page is great too
by (1.9k points)
@texas depending what the child’s age is ask the health visitor to write a letter to your landlord or get the council to come have a look building regulations
+26 votes
by (1.3k points)
That's dangerous for a child. if renting you need to talk to your landlord
by (1.1k points)
@jankey9 My landlord is happy for me to do what I want- as long as I pay for it. I’m sure he’ll be happy to rent to someone else, if I’m not happy.  
by (990 points)
@texas landlord deffo needs to sort out lovely and can't just chuck you out xx
by (1.9k points)
@texas suspension wire is cheap and safe, ask a builder but it’s a cheap job don’t get shafted.  
+37 votes
by (880 points)
Is it council? Surely if it is they have a duty of making the rails safer? X
by (1.1k points)
@incense77778 no, not council. Private renting- and I struggle to get the landlord to help with a leak, let alone the garden stairs. ‍♀️
by (1.2k points)
Landlord has a duty full stop, no excuses, I would speak to your local council and enquire if he can be forced to make these steps safe
by (880 points)
@mcmann yes what carolyn said id try speak to council or something because them stairs alone are dangerous and if u have a leak they arent fixing surely u could withheld rent or something for that. id even see if u can get advice from a solicitor as u get 30mins free on phone most places now xxx
by (2.5k points)
@texas if you tell the council even though you private rent they will make your landlord fix what ever issues you have. they have to have the property up standard regulations
by (530 points)
@incense77778 unfortunately she took the premises on with a child so it’s not actually his responsibility they only have to ensure they have safe evacuation points . what about some solid pallets to fence it in? Try and source some free or cheap ones and hopefully you know someone who’s handy that can fit them for you as for the steps what about some rubber mats as suggested above xxx
by (1.9k points)
@incense77778 illegal steps child or not
by (1.7k points)
@incense77778 NEVER withhold rent! Instant eviction and costs. @texas
+85 votes
by (820 points)
Do you own or rent? As surely these are unsafe according to building regulations. If you rent I would speak to Citizens advice xx
by (1.1k points)
@carrick154 rent. The landlord won’t sort it out.  
+33 votes
by (850 points)
Is it ur property?  
by (1.1k points)
@nonfeasance no, I private rent
+93 votes
by (990 points)
Turn it into a slide? Lol xx but other than that box in the sides xd
by (1.1k points)
@allhallowmas I share it with the next door neighbour. I don’t think he’d appreciate it  
by (990 points)
@texas  
+18 votes
by (1.4k points)
Once she’s fallen down them once she’ll learn how to use the stairs lol In all seriousness I think you just need to teach her to go slowly and never run or rush. Trust that she can use them. Effectively they are like steps on a slide just the handles are a bit higher.  
by (1.1k points)
@danella8246 I walk with her and make sure I go infront, telling her to walk slowly and carefully.  I have dogs and they go in the garden too. My elderly dog has trouble with the steps- as she’s slightly lost her balance. I thought the sides may help her out too.  
by (1.4k points)
You might be able to put boards hanging from the rails. You can get strips of metal with screw holes in from screwfix and toolstation. Not sure what they are called but could wrap that around the rails and screw to boards. Maybe fix it to the side of the steps or hold in place with something heavy
by (910 points)
@danella8246 I agree. @texas show her how to walk up and down them safely holding onto the rail. The more she does it the easier it will become.  
by (5.8k points)
These are a liability for an adult let alone a kid, one trip and you could fall under the handle rail and have a really bad fall to the ground potentially killing or paralyzing you.  
+101 votes
by (1.4k points)
I’d say bamboo fencing too x
by (850 points)
@spigot3728 whatever you do don’t use bamboo fencing it’s not strong enough and it would be hard to get a good fixing. If a child fell onto it and it wouldn’t hold. Whatever you put there needs to be secure otherwise it just gives a false sense of security. Although I think Bamboo fencing would look lovely.  
by (1.4k points)
@typewrite1840 true year more I think of it now. Haven’t a clue what to suggest  
by (850 points)
I think the hardest thing would be trying to get a good fixing on whatever she puts up. It would worry me, if they miss the handrail they would be straight off the side.  
+100 votes
by (760 points)
I’d get a fireman’s pole they’re safe enough for playgrounds
+87 votes
by (790 points)
What ever you do. You’re still going to be holding hands down those  x
+46 votes
by (1.4k points)
Try post on your local Facebook page also see if anyone has anything they can offer to help make it more safe for you daughter xx
+20 votes
by (940 points)
If you rent I would talk to landlord. But some of the ideas above are good. I'd say bamboo screanibg and some solar lights to light your path up the stairs.  
by (800 points)
@effy53 Panton the child would fall straight through a bamboo screen wouldn't be any safer surely
by (850 points)
@effy53 Panton whatever you do don’t use bamboo fencing it’s not strong enough and it would be hard to get a good fixing. If a child fell onto it and it wouldn’t hold. Whatever you put there needs to be secure otherwise it just gives a false sense of security. Although I think Bamboo fencing would look lovely.  
+90 votes
by (1.8k points)
U definitely need a better handrail I'd be scared walking down them myself
+45 votes
by (1.4k points)
Bloody hell I would be scared of those stairs let alone with a small child.  
+92 votes
by (990 points)
Also wouldnt leave shoes etc on the steps as youre making your kid go closer to the unsecured edge xx
+27 votes
by (1.2k points)
I would put a rope half way down that gap so she can hold it
+77 votes
by (800 points)
Trellis is cheap - attach it to either side will make it a little safer for now
by (850 points)
@toh548 it’s not strong enough and it would be hard to get a good fixing. If a child fell onto it and it wouldn’t hold. Whatever you put there needs to be secure otherwise it just gives a false sense of security. Although I think trellis would look lovely.  
by (800 points)
Unless the child was extremely heavy it would be fine Cable ties would 100% hold it secure in place too Anything else would cost a fortune and as it’s rented it’s pretty much wasted money
by (530 points)
@toh548 the wind can take bamboo out so a child certainly could I wouldn’t use it personally maybe attach it to a more solid frame for effect but not as a safety measure I have a 3 year old and he bounces off everything lol so I personally wouldn’t use it as a barrier x
+71 votes
by (760 points)
You could do with a sturdy trellis maybe fitted down the sides and rubber matting on the steps.  
+74 votes
by (800 points)
Knock them down and replace with a trampoline.  
by (600 points)
You know your drunken friends will be the first to try that approach.  
by (800 points)
@autogamy with a net of course, safety first.  
by (600 points)
@spigot3728 - Depends on the "friend" ;-)
+91 votes
by (1.7k points)
What about wood all the way down
by (800 points)
@downspout3 yep that was going to be my suggestion too. Box in with some cheap MDF or similar.  
+29 votes
by (820 points)
Anti slip plastic rubber mat like this
+98 votes
by (3.1k points)
Theres no way these meet modern buildings regulations check with council.  
+31 votes
by (1.5k points)
Those foam floor matts? X
+57 votes
by (810 points)
Create a banester with pallets
+14 votes
by (1.7k points)
Something like this or even closed
+99 votes
by (1.2k points)
Install a slide with a foam pit at the bottom attach ropes to help you get up again
by (1.1k points)
@kopaz Farrar my neighbour shares the stairs. I don’t think he’d appreciate it.  
+13 votes
by (830 points)
Get on to council no way they are safe and more than likely break building regulations
+10 votes
by (840 points)
Yikes. Bet they are a nightmare in the snow/ice!  
by (1.1k points)
@dorn879 yes absolute nightmare! My elderly dog uses the stairs as well and it’s such a worry watching her use them in snow and ice.  
by (840 points)
@texas I bet it is. Hope you manage to get something sorted. Xx
+18 votes
by (1.4k points)
Definately speak to landlord about getting safer rail and sides if get no joy with him/her go to council health and safety Dept !  
by (1.5k points)
@irreparable262 completely agree! They’re not safe and your landlord has an obligation to make sure everything is fit for purpose. Don’t make it about your little girl, as such, more a general complaint about safety . Do some research first into what he should be providing. Good luck  
by (1.1k points)
@irreparable262 no way are those stairs legal with a child hunny, speak to the landlord. Even with the sides covered they still look really scary they are so steep  
by (1.4k points)
@vo3245 its not me thats asking the question hun its Jennie Bostocks post but I totally agree xx
by (1.1k points)
@irreparable262 eek sorry lol
+88 votes
by (990 points)
Board up the sides and fit a lower hand rail to suit
+67 votes
by (990 points)
I’d be tempted to make a gate halfway down so couldn’t fall all way down if tripped. Add rubber mats for grip .  
by (850 points)
@dannydannye I’d be just as worried about falling thru the sides
by (990 points)
@typewrite1840 my commets before was to board up the sides
by (850 points)
@dannydannye apologies I didn’t see the post before. Awful stairs for her but I don’t think it would be an easy job to do. I hope she can get a resolve.  
+26 votes
by (790 points)
You could cover like this, my stone steps are still underneath.  
+36 votes
by (790 points)
Spindles on the gaps and then non slip mats x
+9 votes
by (790 points)
Get the landlord to make access safer!  
0 votes
by (810 points)
Try painting the steps with a sand mix for extra grip. Bamboo screens are cheap for the side panels, fix wooden hand rails or cut open foam pool noodles to cover those rusty rails. Solar fairy lights all the way down along the handrails. After pics please as I’m sure you will make them beautiful  
by (850 points)
@fantan whatever you do don’t use bamboo fencing it’s not strong enough and it would be hard to get a good fixing. If a child fell onto it and it wouldn’t hold. Whatever you put there needs to be secure otherwise it just gives a false sense of security. Although I think Bamboo fencing would look lovely.  
by (810 points)
@typewrite1840 everyone is making suggestions for @texas so why are you copying and pasting the same message to several peoples responses? You could just message your suggestion on the post like everyone else ‍♀️
by (850 points)
@fantan sorry but I’m genuinely worried that she will try to fix bamboo fencing up, If her little one leans hard on it she will go thru it. It would look lovely but it would not be strong enough. I’m not putting peoples comments down, I’m just genuinely worried.  
by (530 points)
@typewrite1840 I 100% agree with you x
by (530 points)
@typewrite1840 it’s not his responsibility unfortunately. If she rented it with a small child the risk is there to see . we rented a house before now with a balcony and had to board it up for the safety of our son. renting is a grey area and I do feel for her but like you said there are cheap alternatives like pallets etc but bamboo god no be like lining it with a chocolate screen on a hot day lol xx
by (850 points)
@dactylology balcony’s would worry me too, my son is 5 and a proper climber and jumper I have only just started to leave upstairs windows open when he is playing in his room. I always wanted a balcony until I had kids! I have never rented myself but have friends and family that do. I would just try to keep things as amicable as I could. Like you say, lots of grey areas. I hope she finds a safe solution. xx
+68 votes
by (830 points)
The landlord still has to comply with building regs in order to rent.  
by (530 points)
@diffident50 Kendrick he’s not breaking regs . he’s supplied a fire exit . not every house is child friendly when you rent and it’s a parents responsibility to ensure the safety of their child she’s doing the right thing but it’s not down to him
+75 votes
by (750 points)
Decking rope may help
+4 votes
by (1k points)
Shit that ante safe for no1 ur landlord should fix them becouse they dangerous x
+55 votes
by (2.9k points)
Health and safety may want to see them
+64 votes
by (1.1k points)
These would never meet regulations these days, especially as you’ve got a young child too. Speak to citizens advice or get in touch with a local enforcement housing officer and ask if they can have a look at them for you. Health and safety standards and regulations would have a field day with those steps x
+14 votes
by (840 points)
OMG I got the fear just looking at them x
+19 votes
by (800 points)
I worry putting a screen up that it might make it appear safer when actually isn't as if someone slipped they'd go straight through it.  
by (2.5k points)
@oday7 my thought exactly. needs to be proper blocked up
+15 votes
by (1.1k points)
Don't know the name, but the thick steel cables with twist tighteners--make several vertical ones between the metal railings. See my crappy quick picture. below. You could also try doing the steel cables (2-3) parallel to the railings, but you'd have to find an attachment that would attach to the bricks at the top. You could run vines on them that flowers to beautiful and help create a visual barrier. Good luck.  
+86 votes
by (800 points)
Boxing it all in with MDF or similar might work as a temporary fix BUT you need to speak to the council if your landlord is refusing to fix this. These steps could kill you or your child.  
+65 votes
by (2.1k points)
Omg I’d want a hand to hold on those too
+47 votes
by (760 points)
Stair gate from top and half way so can't fall any further. god.  
+33 votes
by (2k points)
You need to fence in so cant fall down the sides and I would gate top and bottom with child proof lock as they look v steep and scary
+34 votes
by (790 points)
Not the prettiest but cheap and quick. You could use this safety netting and attach it with cable ties x
+34 votes
by (790 points)
Lady you can painting something or simply put the color the your preference. Trying!  
+55 votes
by (820 points)
I would build decking steps over the top and paint in coo-var sure grip- sand paint and you won’t slip on that xxxx
+58 votes
by (1.4k points)
@texas lovely this is down to the landlord to make safe not you! What I will say is, does the landlord own the building or just the flat you live in? if the building then it's definitely down to him. So as you are not the only person using this stairwell DO NOT do anything to convert it from what it is. Anyone who uses the stairwell can sue you if they have an accident on it once you have made changes to it, so please put the responsibility back in the hand of your landlord if nothing changes then get in touch with health and safety at your local council and ask them to come take a peek. PLEASE PLEASE do not take this task on yourself !  
+66 votes
by (830 points)
Surely that’s not legal?! Serious accident waiting to happen. Not sure who you need to contact but this is not your responsibility.  
by (3.9k points)
@interruption34382. Does look rather steep!  
+30 votes
by (2k points)
You need to get your landlord to do something he has a duty of care to you and or your daughter. You shouldn't have to pay when it's something like that.  
+62 votes
by (760 points)
Foam tiles on each step! I know that’s not possible but gosh they’re steep
+32 votes
by (1.1k points)
Would cost but. I'd make a raised decking bit with a safe stairway to a next level of decking then more steps to garden on the 2nd level have a seating area/bbq xxx
+28 votes
by (820 points)
Your daughter will have trouble getting up them not down when she's 25 after a night out!  
+69 votes
by (1.2k points)
I woujd calm your council as they do not meet heath and Safty standards. End off.  
+39 votes
by (830 points)
Make a ramp
+29 votes
by (790 points)
Contact environmental health as that’s a health risk . Especially if it’s a fire exit aswell . Please seek some advice
by (730 points)
Yes to this. Or shelter or c. a. b assuming you’ve already approached your landlord x
+59 votes
by (760 points)
Those foam tiles stuck to the steps and solid sides, whilst you take someone to task do you think, oh and tiles at the bottom too. I found them useful for protecting my grandson.  
+8 votes
by (840 points)
I’m 31 and don’t think I could make it down them ‍♀️
+65 votes
by (690 points)
Rubber, from car tyres hack
by (850 points)
@salade this has just given me like a million ideas lol
+42 votes
by (810 points)
A slide and a straw mat maybe?  
by (3.9k points)
@caduceus Hind. Weeeeee, I'll be up for that haha. Or am I too old!  
+63 votes
by (850 points)
I think you would need an sds drill to get a fixing in the concrete stairs drilling into the handrail would probably be easier tho. I would speak to the landlord and maybe get some quotes from local builders/handyman and perhaps try to come to an arrangement with the landlord. People say to contact council etc but I also realise you probably don’t want to rock the boat too much. Whatever you put there make sure it’s strong enough as it will just promote a false sense of security and maybe your little one won’t take as much care as she would be reliant on what is there. Also if it’s shared and you put something inadequate up and somebody else falls thru it you could be liable. I hope you find a solution as they would terrify me but I think I would seek professional advice in the form of a builder. Good luck.  
+45 votes
by (990 points)
If you rent, maybe contact the landlord and explain it doesn’t meet safety regulations. If it’s yours then of course the gaps need filling in to stop it being so hazardous. It would be great fun to make it into a slide! Not sure how you’d get back up again though.  
+32 votes
by (3.6k points)
I would think you need like rubber grips on the bars & paint he edges of the steps either red or yellow or something bright , a few extra bars maybe like how scaffolding is locked into place . Can’t exactly bum shuffle safety down the stairs outside your home . They say kids learn faster then adults , even kids play areas have tyres , netting and climbing rocks for little kids to use .  
+56 votes
by (3.6k points)
Extra bar near to the treds and a cargo net
+31 votes
by (3.6k points)
Even if the sides was bricked up it would probably help
+30 votes
by (1.2k points)
Attach a bar at the bottom and do something like this
by (990 points)
@dreg834 that’s a great idea.  
+13 votes
by (3.6k points)
Half round coping stones cemented on each edge , like mini rainbows on every step
+85 votes
by (870 points)
Needs fencing in, metal posts can be drilled into steps with wooden posts slotted into make a framework, then enclose but if it's rented get landlord to sort out, it breaches safety with toddler around
+66 votes
by (5.8k points)
Surely they're against the law on health and safety grounds  
+12 votes
by (1.9k points)
These stairs are illegal get in touch with your landlord. If you don’t rent suspension wire
+15 votes
by (1.7k points)
Is that the only entrance/exit to your flat? Or just a fire exit/back door? If that's the case - don't risk it. Walk the long way round.  
+61 votes
by (7.3k points)
Everyone’s ideas are great, also maybe a rubber Matt at the bottom. Just in case they do have a tumble it’ll be softer than the concrete. My sons accident prone aha
+28 votes
by (7.3k points)
A gate at the top. Strips of old rubber car mats, tyres or carpet samples on the stair treads. Glue them down . Try and fill in the sides with ply or strips of wood from pallets and run a strong rope at a lower level than the handrail that your little girl can hold on too
+34 votes
by (1.6k points)
I would move house
+22 votes
by (3.9k points)
If its a council property, you might be able to lodge a complaint on a health and safety standpoint and ask for the steps to be re configured to a two stage ramp?  
+74 votes
by (810 points)
I’d worry about them in icy weather too. Need to get grip stuff on stairs and definitely something at sides. Sorry don’t have ideas other than those before.  
+90 votes
by (3.5k points)
A slide for the way down?  
by (730 points)
@chandelier dead funny you are! got kids have you?  
+49 votes
by (780 points)
What about putting fake grass on the steps? To make it softer x
by (1.1k points)
@abbey6514 to cushion the fall?  
+90 votes
by (1.6k points)
Do you rent? If so u don't think those steps are legal
+96 votes
by (800 points)
That’s an accident waiting to happen. Can you walk round to the back garden from the front entrance?  
+7 votes
by (760 points)
@dreg834 Solution is Excellent Start and looks good to , then address other good ideas here to help prevent slipping !  
+50 votes
by (730 points)
Cant believe people think this is funny when she is concerned for her child’s wellbeing! If it is rented they need to sort it I work in this industry and this would need to be looked at well before you even moved in.  
+36 votes
by (890 points)
I slide down half of them ?  
+24 votes
by (1.1k points)
Paint with anti slip paint and trellis the sides
+31 votes
by (870 points)
Chicken wire or wire mesh
+101 votes
by (1.6k points)
I would try and find somewhere else to live if possible.  
by (1.1k points)
@habakkuk I’ve tried and tried for ages and had no luck.  
+28 votes
by (840 points)
Health and safety the landlord has to sort them
by (5.8k points)
@organology I agree especially if a council property
+48 votes
by (840 points)
You could get a roll of rubber matting to make the steps safer, then trellis and plants on the side?  
+70 votes
by (900 points)
Eek, you wouldn’t get me up and down them happily, I’m a wimp though. I hope you can get something sorted out,  
+28 votes
by (920 points)
May be artificial grass for steps xx
by (920 points)
Like @aliped71125 said trellis up the side xx
by (1.9k points)
@militant74053 that sounds a good idea x
by (920 points)
I think that would look nicer and would work babe x
by (920 points)
Have a look on market place see if anyone is selling cheap or if not try amazon
by (630 points)
Tracey, wouldn't that be slippery when wet? My DiL's is.  
by (630 points)
I dont think trellis would be safe or strong enough. My son fell through some trellis a few months back.  
+94 votes
by (2.4k points)
I’d want something like this fitted
+33 votes
by (5.8k points)
If your council or housing association I’d ask them to make the railings at side safer
by (1.1k points)
@honoria60 private rented
by (610 points)
@texas private landlord still need to address Risks. - if not get the LA to do a HHSRS assessment, defo a Cat 1 risk of falling, increased risk due to age of 5 year old
by (5.8k points)
@circumspect93691 100% high risk
+15 votes
by (910 points)
Landlord has to sort that !  
by (810 points)
They don't have to sort it ! Unless the council instruct them to
by (610 points)
@rosaline private landlord still need to address Risks. - if not get the LA to do a HHSRS assessment, defo a Cat 1 risk of falling, increased risk due to age of 5 year old
by (910 points)
@rosaline/activity" class="qa-user-link">rosaline see Paul’s advice to get things moving @rosaline/activity" class="qa-user-link">rosaline  
by (910 points)
@circumspect93691 great advice  
by (690 points)
Join ACORN tenants’ Union. They can support with things like this.  
by (610 points)
@rosaline afraid think that’s bad advice to give to any landlord. Running that through standard HSSRS assessment the lack of any form of lower side rails (even like on the top steps) would be a CAT 1 risk for any age group - could easily slip and fall sideways.  
by (810 points)
The council have checked our and fine !  
by (810 points)
Tbh if someone calls ti view these properties we will alway tell them it's not suitable for children, so if they insists they will be fine then it's not really fair to the landlord to then get on his back
by (910 points)
@rosaline maybe some free legal advice from a local CAB office is a good place for her to start in this situation
by (810 points)
Yes she only has to call environmental health and they will go out ! And if they pass them she may be able to get the council to do something ! They do from time to time for vulnerable people,  
+58 votes
by (1.1k points)
Try this one
by (2.6k points)
@buzzard11 I think it's a case of her child falling through the very large gaps & not slipping on the steps.  
by (3.4k points)
@periwig35390 I expect it's both, slipping on them, if wet will be a death trap.  
+94 votes
by (820 points)
Landlords have a duty of care.  
by (810 points)
Landlords do have a duty of care but they can't keep paying out for everytime they get a tenant with diffrent needs ! If I took on a property I would checkout everything and not take the property if I thought something was a miss !  
by (610 points)
@rosaline id agree, but in this instance for any tenant it does need work - side barriers and also ensure the steps are not slippy. As it currently stands it’s a CAT 1 on a HHSRS for any type of tenant - the LA could force the landlord to do it
+99 votes
by (1.7k points)
I would totally feel the same ! I would attach wooden fence to the sides . If u rent the property contact ur landlord to upgrade it for safety reasons . Good luck  
by (1.7k points)
I know I would fall down that myself and I’m an adult . I know people back in the day that permanently injured themselves from these steps without sides . It can be kept as it is and just add the sides to it . wooden or plastic . for extra safety . Accident happens and this idea will definitely reduce the chances . There are reason why steps are not made like this anymore
+25 votes
by (2.6k points)
Maybe trellis between the steps and hand rails, rubber strips or anti slip paint on the treads.  
+102 votes
by (910 points)
Could get another rung welded on then paint it so it catches the eye better.  
+14 votes
by (870 points)
No but your post made me laugh
by (2.4k points)
@militant74053 Pirelli made you laugh?  
by (870 points)
@chide holding her hand till she’s 25 !  
by (2.4k points)
@militant74053 Pirelli oh  
by (2.4k points)
My 25 year old would probably hold mine to stop me falling now  
by (1.7k points)
@militant74053 Pirelli I’m 41 and definitely need someone to hold my hands down that !  I fell from that when I was a kid . I was sitting down and a friend said move over and boom I fell to the floor !  
+84 votes
by (810 points)
I’d be surprised if that was even legal nowadays.  
by (870 points)
@landed its definitely not to regulation
by (810 points)
Yep they are legal and safer than wood and metal, there are loads of these about still
by (810 points)
When your child trips on the steps and falls out the side , that is not safe!  
+16 votes
by (6.9k points)
Im thinking practicly right now. if your landlord wont or cant fix it and you want to do it for safety then it needs looking at. I would use timber. First attatch a length of timber to the handrail to form a new bannister. Then use lengths of timber to form either vertical or in line horizontal barriers down the full legth. Vertical might be easier as you can then attach them to your new wooden bannister. Its still going to be a job and a half but a whole lot safer
+52 votes
by (2.6k points)
Surely your landlord should be responsible for this, if they refuse take it higher
+49 votes
by (810 points)
Put some netting up just while shes learning that she has tj he careful on the steps ! X
+102 votes
by (850 points)
That doesn’t look legal. I would check the regulations for stairs and hand railings and ask my landlord to make adjustments accordingly. Report it to the council if he or she doesn’t comply.  
by (870 points)
@turf25 its definitely not to regulations
by (870 points)
@rosaline they arnt legal, my husband designs stairs for his job and spends alot of time making outside steps legal
by (870 points)
You need to read building regulations douctument k 1. 38 guarding of stairs
by (810 points)
@rosaline shame on you then , you should insist on safety for your clients
by (850 points)
And these days people know better that’s why they built safer stairs! It is not ok to have these in a building.  
by (810 points)
I prefer these to the newer wood and metal ones now, they get very slippy in the winter
+7 votes
by (2.4k points)
The railings look like they’ve been up since the 70s , no health and safety then
by (810 points)
Yesbtgay are 70s and are so much stronger that the ones used nowadays (slippy metal and wood)
+98 votes
by (970 points)
I’d get some Wood on the outside somehow I’d be frightened incase I fell x
+72 votes
by (2.1k points)
Tie screening onto them ask if you can paint them and mabe stick foam pads on them
+15 votes
by (2.3k points)
Id still hold her hand that looks a long way down and id not forgive myself if they fell obviously when they are older it’s different x
+54 votes
by (2.4k points)
It seems strange that the top section has a mid rail but the longest bit hasn’t. That on its own would be a lot safer
+50 votes
by (870 points)
The stairs arent to regulation, you need to read building regulations douctument k 1. 38 guarding of stairs. My husband designs stair cases for his job.  
by (2.1k points)
@periwig35390 Short as a prior installation, I expect it won't come under building regs. If it's a rental though, it's different.  
by (870 points)
@prodigal it looks like a fire exit which would come under h&s and need to updated with a balustrade
by (2.1k points)
@periwig35390 Short only if it's a rental. Private properties aren't so heavily monitored until the home is developed.  
by (870 points)
@prodigal she already advised it was a rental
+95 votes
by (4k points)
These are illegal. Health and safety. x
+100 votes
by (840 points)
Please be careful. I fell down the stairs at home last week - about 6/7 stairs. I have a badly broken wrist (that in normal circumstances would have been operated on that same day) and a very badly bruised left leg. I would worry about the open sides if either of you fell x
0 votes
by (660 points)
What country is this ?  
by (2.5k points)
@effeminize0 I was wondering this as regs maybe different
by (660 points)
@exalted10 that’s what I thought never uk regs ‍♀️
+56 votes
by (830 points)
Scaffolding pole and clamps to put additional rail or rails maybe?  
+34 votes
by (1.4k points)
If you bought this place, your Surveyor needs Horse whipping. If it is Private or Local Authority you need to have words with them as clearly not legal.  
+104 votes
by (880 points)
To be honest they are probably no less safe than mine and my kids coped and I had lots of kids up and down them, its probably a good idea to fill the sides in a little though x
+37 votes
by (860 points)
Don't think that's legal now, you would need to speak to landlord or property manager whoever is in charge and ask about these beinf replaced. They would fail a health and safety visit.  
by (630 points)
@turf25 Kenefick I was just thinking the same
+28 votes
by (860 points)
Middle rail/lower rail for child to hold.  
+18 votes
by (830 points)
You turn half of it into a slide.  
+91 votes
by (920 points)
Turn into a slide - then you can both enjoy  
+28 votes
by (810 points)
Ohhh would look lovely as greek style , paint the stomes white and the railing blue . pop some plant pots going down the steps easy and cheap to do , ive done mine
+52 votes
by (3.9k points)
I think it's a case for a solicitor
+89 votes
by (870 points)
What about some sort of balcony screening ? U’d need to run a support along bottom from upright to upright so u have something to attach or secure the screen at bottom but might help make it a little safer?! However if was me I’d b getting on to landlord or Council & quoting H&S regs! Good luck  
+40 votes
by (890 points)
Wire mesh or solid wood. But this should of been looked at before accepting or wanting to live in the flat!  
+88 votes
by (1.2k points)
U could put the fence bamboo on but who ever your renting it off ask them if they can do anything as it’s a child safety
+64 votes
by (2.6k points)
Looks lije fire exit
+96 votes
by (2.7k points)
How did they even pass health and safety ? If possible go council and show pics ! Depends on your finances, pay out or cheaper , Astro turf for steps , and panel the side with 2 long pieces of timber . Good luck x
+101 votes
by (880 points)
Ring enviromental health they should tell landlord it needs making safe
+92 votes
by (6k points)
When she is 25 you will need to hold her hand. Ps I am thinking about your problem. Xpps Looking at them from the top made me feel dizzy. Hold her hand tightly. Hope some help will come to you soon. xLet us know I shall keep worrying. X
+18 votes
by (1.6k points)
Yes I agree wouldn't be with this either theres no room for error here. Especially if we get frosty weather, landlords responsibility. If not contact council or citizens advice bureau. Good luck  
+27 votes
by (2.1k points)
Just use the back door.  
by (2.4k points)
@wellknown2150 guessing she lives upstairs
by (2.1k points)
@chide well, if they own the whole house and do not share just close this door. Do not wanna worry about she go out alone couse I forgot to lock. If they are share and only this the access, then imposible to make safe. On ground defianetly make a gate, just in case she can't walk up alone.  
by (2.4k points)
@wellknown2150 it’s a flat as stated on the original post
+6 votes
by (3.8k points)
I would put fake grass on it, panel the sides with timber.  
+102 votes
by (860 points)
Turn one side of stairs into a slide!  
+97 votes
by (1.5k points)
If ure in rented im pretty sure ure local housing officer would be interested in the m railings and make thd landlord make thrm safe, thry need filling in. As for steps could u paint them
+91 votes
by (3.4k points)
I wouldn't box it in unless you put something for little one to grab hold of. Whatever you use she needs to be able to hold onto something.  
+22 votes
by (840 points)
Barbed wire
+41 votes
by (2.4k points)
Build a slide
+84 votes
by (1.1k points)
Add a slide ‍♂️
+60 votes
by (990 points)
Slide ?  
+3 votes
by (690 points)
Box the sides in with wood. So no risk of falling sidewards add grips to handrail maybe.  
+63 votes
by (860 points)
Rubber treads Grippy handrail cover Second handrail she can hold at her height? Fill sides in. Perspex sheet/ even netting or rope  spiral or fire escape stairs from another point?  
+103 votes
by (840 points)
Do you own your home? I think those steps are very out of health and safety. I'd remove and build safer steps down to the garden.  
+34 votes
by (830 points)
Need demolishing, it's an eye sore & unsafe.  
+54 votes
by (1.7k points)
Is that even legal?  
+18 votes
by (920 points)
I would try and close up the gap at the sides with wood. I can imagine winter would be a nightmare for you icy stairs like that absolute nightmare. Hope you find a solution x
+6 votes
by (1.1k points)
This poor lady only asked opinions on how to make it safe for her daughter and most of the comments are opinions about her duty of care as a parent! i rent my property and we do all our own repairs and not bother my landlord every 5 mins about this and that and he doesn't bother us and put our rent up every year.  
by (920 points)
@jowett well said
by (3.1k points)
@jowett this staircase is a total death trap and is illegal, her landlord should be contacted about it its hardly a trivial cosmetic matter.  
by (1.4k points)
@jowett As it's a shared staircase she shouldn't be making any modifications to it at all. Anyone who has an accident after her modification will make her liable, which is probably why neither of the owners have
+70 votes
by (4.7k points)
Do you rent ? They should be made up to standard.  
+7 votes
by (4.7k points)
You could attach screening or fence/lattice panels to it
+95 votes
by (840 points)
A slide and rubber mat at the bottom! X
+64 votes
by (1.7k points)
Filling in the gaps with wooden frame work. Paint the steps with non-slip paint.  
+73 votes
by (900 points)
The landlord wont do anything if they are not forced to, for two reasons 1. money and 2. if he does anything to the steps now they would have to be inline with current building regs. These may have fitted at the time. In saying that you can get the council to come out and do a check … cant remember what the name of the assessment is but they come and do it and make it as safe as reasonably possible. I had to do this to ours and they did it.  
by (850 points)
@halftimbered8 housing standards will do an inspection
by (900 points)
Yes but it has a name I just cant remember the name
+83 votes
by (4.6k points)
Grip strips and paint white lines so can see in dark . Perplex sheets .  
+99 votes
by (1.6k points)
They are illegal, they can not even be classed as an emergency fire escape
+43 votes
by (1.2k points)
Paint it and put them stick fence things on
+87 votes
by (920 points)
Get someone who is good with wood to make extra panels to cover sides and lower rail for your daughter to hold on to Then paint the steps with a good none slip paint and on the riser get daughter to paint hand prints each month yougest at the bottom then following month paint next step
+62 votes
by (840 points)
I think if I was in your shoes id not put anything that can be broken like fencing or netting . I dont knw if its possible but scaffolding poles running in the middle of each gap either welded or anchored on xx good luck xx
+58 votes
by (890 points)
If you one the flat and garden look in to putting a long ramp in if the garden is long enough for it
+102 votes
by (3.1k points)
*****I know people are trying to help but they need to stop giving you advice to tackle this yourself its a total death trap. I think you should turn comments off love these stairs shouldn't be a DIY job, as I said before they need to be modified in accordance with modern Building Regulations so contact the council and arrange an inpection ASAP. I spent 20years as an inspector and I can assure you theyll condemn this right away. Please dont attempt DIY on this yourself xx
by (660 points)
@militant74053 Lumsden also it is rented and anything done would have to be approved by the owner. Going by her previous post I doubt the landlord would be helpful.  
by (3.1k points)
@storehouse its irrelevant what the landlord is prepared to do and it is completely irrelevant that she rents. The local authority supercede him, they will put a Notice on it, the HSE will likely fine him and it needs taken down now.  
by (660 points)
@militant74053 Lumsden my 2 old landlords were really bad with repairs. One "fixed" everything with a silicone gun. He did have white, clear, and brown silicone, so could make everything better.  
by (3.1k points)
@storehouse yes there's many unscrupulous landlords out there. But this is way beyond that, its not just immoral or hazardous its illegal.  
+59 votes
by (1.5k points)
Oh I feel your pain! Xx wee Dylan's 6 and I hate concrete stairs  
+42 votes
by (1.1k points)
Wood panels down sides with hand rail half way down
+43 votes
by (1.4k points)
You could get 1000s of tonnes of soil and raise your garden level with the flat  sorry neighbours x
+71 votes
by (1.1k points)
I’d be installing a slide! Slide down, stairs back up!  
+96 votes
by (850 points)
Netting, chicken wire or plexiglass. Maybe appeal to locals for broken outside chairs where you could reuse the mesh fabric?  
+28 votes
by (860 points)
Cling film for a quick cheap fix
+26 votes
by (840 points)
What about rubber mats stuck on ?  
+92 votes
by (830 points)
Needs more railing I think
+41 votes
by (5k points)
How about getting landlord to make it safe. With better rails, and fill in gaps with panels of wood or metal with patterns cut in them
+96 votes
by (860 points)
Small garden bristle matts going up each step?  
by (3.9k points)
@worship. Good suggestion!  
+6 votes
by (810 points)
If you rent, the landlord must air it out surely. X
+6 votes
by (1.9k points)
Omg id hate to have few beers n go sit out . lol . r hump a pram up there etc .  
+104 votes
by (1.6k points)
Why not paint them different colours with no on them. That way she can count the stair as she goes down them. Making it fun. I would also put some sort of a lower bar for her to hold onto both sides.  
+68 votes
by (810 points)
Get a slide for coming down
+93 votes
by (1.8k points)
You can plant some hedging lemon far trees keep them as hedges. apple blossoms there flowers smell lovely. that would look nice . smell lovely as you walk up the stairs
+91 votes
by (2k points)
Rubber stair treads
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