Mobility scooters can make a big difference in helping you get around safely and comfortably.

Whether you’re using one at home or out and about, it’s important to understand the key safety features and how to use them properly. This section will guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of your mobility scooter.

We want you to get the most out of life while staying safe at home. Here’s everything you need to know before bringing in a scooter.

Is Your Home Ready?

Indoor storage & charging?

You don’t need our permission to keep and charge a scooter inside your own home but it must be safe and not cause damage.

Outdoors or communal blocks?

Scooters can’t be stored or charged in corridors or shared spaces unless we’ve provided a designated, fire-safe area and given written permission.

Frequently Asked Questions

No communal areas like hallways and corridors must be kept clear for your safety and emergency escape. Exceptions exist in a few schemes (e.g., Phoenix Court, Chivenor House) with official bays. Always get written OK from us first.

First, talk to your Housing Officer.

If it’s medically necessary, you’ll also need an occupational-therapy report from Birmingham City Council.

If no options are available, your Officer can help you explore rehousing or sensible compromises.

We’ll ask you to move it. If not, we’ll send a legal notice and may charge you for removal and storage.

Fire risk: Lithium-ion batteries can overheat or catch fire unexpectedly, once alight, they spread quickly and fill hallways with smoke.

Escape blockage: Fires often leave escape routes unusable.

Regulation compliance: We follow the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and NFCC guidance.

Fire-Safe Charging & Storage Tips

Choose one of:

  • An approved scooter store, designed with fire-resistant construction, sprinklers, alarms, and ventilation.
  • Home charging: use your own lounge, not hallways, on a flat, non-flammable surface.

  • Always use the right charger.
  • Don’t leave it charging overnight or while you sleep.
  • Charge during the day, in a well-ventilated space, at room temperature.

  • Watch for overheating, chewing, damaged casing or smell stop using anything that’s wonky.
  • Annual PAT testing may be required in communal buildings.

  • Buy scooters and parts from reputable suppliers only.
  • Never alter the battery or charger.
  • Avoid charging under bedding, sofas, or carpets.
  • Keep away from flammable things and unplug when full.
  • If you see smoke or smell burning call 999 immediately.

What If You Can’t Meet the Rules?

We might help you find an external store at least 6 m from buildings with fire-resistant construction.

If no suitable storage is available, we may help you move into different accommodation.

You’re responsible for any damage caused by your scooter and for any costs we incur.

Next Steps – What You Need to Do

Let us know if you have or are getting a scooter. Your local Housing officer will check storage & charging routes.

Show us where you’ll keep and charge it inside or in a scooter store

Follow these safety tips and check your scooter monthly.

Need help? Ask us, and if there’s a medical need, your Housing Officer can assist with home adaptations or rehousing options.