Stairwells in HOAs: What Is Actually Allowed – and What Isn't The stairwell of a homeowners' association is often a place of encounter – but unfortunately also a place of storage. What one resident sees as a practical spot for the buggy or a decorative monstera plant is, in the eyes of the fire authority, a dangerous obstruction.

In Switzerland, the rules are strict but clear. But where exactly does the law draw the line between

"homely" and "fire hazard"?

The legal basis: Escape routes are not storage space

In Switzerland, the fire protection regulations of the VKF (Association of Cantonal Fire Insurers) set the standard. The logic is straightforward: the stairwell is the primary escape route. In an emergency, it must be free of smoke and obstructions – especially when nothing is visible due to a power outage and dense smoke.

1. The zero-tolerance zone

The basic rule is: escape routes must be kept free of fire loads. This means anything that can burn or obstruct the passage has no place in the stairwell.

• Shoe cabinets & wooden shelves: Absolutely prohibited. They are combustible and narrow the passageway.
• Waste paper & cardboard: A classic, but a fire safety nightmare.
• Coat racks: Coats and jackets catch fire extremely quickly and produce dense smoke.

2. The baby carriage conflict

This is often where emotions run high. The Federal Court has held that a stroller may stand briefly (e.g. during a visit or for short breaks), provided the minimum escape route width (usually 1.20 m) is maintained. However, using the stairwell as a permanent parking spot is not permitted, especially if it obstructs the passageway or increases the fire load.

3. Decoration: Plants and doormats

A small terracotta flowerpot (non-combustible) is often tolerated, as long as it does not hinder cleaning or pose a tripping hazard. Doormats are more contentious: a small mat in front of the door is generally accepted, as long as it does not turn into a "carpet landscape."

Who is liable if a fire breaks out?

This is where things get serious. If the fire authority identifies deficiencies during an inspection, the notice is issued to the HOA and its management.

• Costs: Fines or the costs of clearing the stairwell are borne by the community – and ultimately by all owners through the reserve fund or ancillary charges.
• Recourse: If personal injury occurs because someone tripped over a bicycle lock or was unable to escape due to a burning cabinet, the insurer may seek recourse from the person responsible.

Tips for peaceful – and safe – cohabitation

1. The house rules bridge the gap: Clearly define in the regulations what is permitted (e.g. "Only doormats and one non-toxic plant per floor").
2. The 1.20-metre rule: If in doubt, mark the escape route width. Anything that encroaches on it must be removed.
3. Digital tracking: Use your financial administration tool to make the costs of fire safety inspections or necessary clearances transparent for all owners. Nothing is more persuasive than clear figures in black and white.

Conclusion
A clear stairwell is not a sign of austerity – it is safety in practice. As a delegate or owner in an HOA, it pays to be consistent on this point, even if it occasionally puts a strain on neighbourly relations. In an emergency, every second counts – not every shoe cabinet.