{ "schema": "whattobuyfor/v1", "type": "situation", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage.json", "publisher": "What to Buy For", "method": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/how-we-build-a-basket/", "pricesAsOf": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "priceNote": "Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.", "affiliateDisclosure": "Links to Amazon are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.", "title": "What to buy for a small flat with no storage", "section": "home", "answer": "Eight things for a small flat with no storage, none needing a drill: under-bed bags and vacuum bags, over-door hooks and pockets, stick-on hooks, a clothes rail, a slim shelf and slim hangers. Renting? Check your tenancy agreement before fixing anything to a wall.", "published": "2026-10-02", "updated": "2026-10-17", "noindex": false, "whyThisBasket": [ "Everything here stands on the floor, hangs over a door or sticks on. Shelter tells renters not to make improvements without the landlord's permission, and to check the tenancy agreement, because even smaller changes may need it.", "The basket starts with space that holds nothing yet, under the bed and on the backs of doors, then adds a rail and a slim shelf for rooms with no wardrobe or cupboard.", "Stick-on hooks still carry a risk. The deposit scheme mydeposits says Blu Tack and other adhesives can damage the walls of a rental and could cost you part of your deposit, and that many landlords who do not allow adhesives such as Command Strips set that out in the tenancy agreement.", "Nothing goes in the shared hallway. London Fire Brigade says communal corridors and staircases must be kept free from clutter, because it can block your escape route, add fuel to a fire and delay firefighting." ], "basket": [ { "id": "under-bed", "label": "Under the bed", "intro": "Measure the gap under your bed before you buy: both under-bed picks are 15 cm high.", "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "Low fabric bags for under the bed", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/#role-under-bed-bags", "quantity": "1 pack of 3", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0BCV5PL1D", "name": "Lifewit 3 Pack Under Bed Storage", "amazonTitle": "Lifewit 3 Pack Under Bed Storage,40L Clothes Storage Bags with Clear Window | Underbed Storage Bags with Zips, Collapsible Wardrobe Organiser for Clothes, Bedding, Duvet, Towels, Blankets, Grey", "brand": "Lifewit", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41dGPNdOwnL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BCV5PL1D?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0BCV5PL1D.json", "price": { "amount": 11.96, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Limited time deal", "note": null, "basis": "Amazon deal badge" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:52:35.338Z", "rating": 4.3, "ratings": 3297, "boughtLastMonth": "1K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 3, "category": "Under-Bed Storage" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "The 40 litre size slides under low beds", "count": 4 }, { "text": "They hold more than they look", "count": 3 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Soft sides sag unless the bag is packed full", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Thin fabric can tear if pulled in and out often", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Lifewit 40 L under-bed storage bags (3)", "ourTake": "Each bag is 60 x 45 x 15 cm and holds 40 litres, with a zip, a clear window and four handles, the listing says, and folds flat when empty. The fabric is breathable non-woven, which suits bedding: Silentnight recommends breathable storage bags for spare duvets, to stop odours and moisture building up, with each duvet completely clean and dry first." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": { "asin": "B0BRPNMDHN", "name": "JUPELI 48L Rigid Under Bed Storage Boxes with", "amazonTitle": "JUPELI 48L Rigid Under Bed Storage Boxes with Lids,15 cm High, 2Pack, Grey", "brand": "JUPELI", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41l6GwNBVCL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BRPNMDHN?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0BRPNMDHN.json", "price": { "amount": 23.79, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Limited time deal", "note": null, "basis": "Amazon deal badge" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T03:41:49.899Z", "rating": 4.4, "ratings": 700, "boughtLastMonth": "200+", "categoryRank": { "position": 11, "category": "Under-Bed Storage" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Sturdy once built, and simple to put together", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Sit neatly under the bed and pull out easily by the handles", "count": 3 }, { "text": "Keep stored bedding and clothes free of dust", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Some parts, such as frame plugs or the zip, feel less solid", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "JUPELI rigid under-bed boxes, 15 cm (2)" }, "sources": [ { "name": "Silentnight: Duvet buying guide", "url": "https://www.silentnight.co.uk/blog/guides/duvet-buying-guide", "checked": "2026-10-17" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "Vacuum bags for bulky winter things", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/#role-vacuum-bags", "quantity": "1 pack of 5", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B07RSCPH4N", "name": "Amazon Basics Storage Bags for Clothes", "amazonTitle": "Amazon Basics Storage Bags for Clothes, Vacuum Compression with Hand Pump, Large, 5-Pack, Clear", "brand": "Amazon Basics", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41iUBSbq1WL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07RSCPH4N?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B07RSCPH4N.json", "price": { "amount": 15.12, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Worth waiting", "note": "on offer 13 of 53 days, not today", "basis": "our daily price checks" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:33:18.472Z", "rating": 4.4, "ratings": 157888, "boughtLastMonth": "10K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Space Saver Bags" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Shrinks bulky duvets and winter clothes a lot", "count": 5 }, { "text": "Thick, strong plastic that does not feel flimsy", "count": 4 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "The hand pump is slow, so most use a vacuum cleaner", "count": 3 } ] }, "ourName": "Amazon Basics vacuum storage bags, large (5)", "ourTake": "Five 80 x 60 cm bags with a hand pump, and the valves also take a vacuum cleaner hose, the listing says. It asks for everything to be dry first and does not recommend them for leather. Slumberdown says vacuum bags help where storage space is limited, but not to compress a duvet too tightly, as that can damage the filling over time." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "Slumberdown: How should I store my bedding?", "url": "https://slumberdown.co.uk/blogs/news/how-should-i-store-my-bedding", "checked": "2026-10-17" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] }, { "id": "doors-walls", "label": "Doors and walls, no drilling", "intro": "London Fire Brigade says your front door, and doors on hallways or landings, should be kept as self-closing fire doors, so hang these on a door that does not need to close by itself.", "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "Over-door hooks for coats and bags", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/#role-door-hooks", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0DG7VPM37", "name": "Optish Over The Door Hooks", "amazonTitle": "Optish Over The Door Hooks, Door Hanger Hook, Over The Doors Towel Rack for Bathroom, Doors Towel Hanger for Hanging Coats Hats (1Pack,Black)", "brand": "Optish", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31Qaq6xXLDL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DG7VPM37?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0DG7VPM37.json", "price": { "amount": 8.49, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Limited time deal", "note": null, "basis": "Amazon deal badge" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:31:52.192Z", "rating": 4.5, "ratings": 3982, "boughtLastMonth": "2K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Over Door Hooks" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Quick to put together with the small screwdriver supplied", "count": 6 }, { "text": "Feels solid and well made", "count": 5 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Sits slightly proud of the door and can rub as it closes", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Optish over-door hooks (12)", "ourTake": "Twelve hooks on a 40 cm frame that hangs over the top of a door up to 4.5 cm thick, with no drilling, the listing says. Each hook takes up to 5 kg. The maker asks you to check there is a coin-width gap above the door first, so it still closes with the hooks in place." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "An over-door organiser with deep pockets", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/#role-door-pockets", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0D3LSTZHV", "name": "Lifewit 6 Tier Over the Door Shoe Organiser", "amazonTitle": "Lifewit 6 Tier Over the Door Shoe Organiser Hanging Rack Holder, Gray | Fabric Hanging Shoes Shlef with 11 Large Deep Pockets for Closet, Dorm Storage, Fit Up to 12 Pair Sneakers, Boots", "brand": "Lifewit", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41PURcF3RzL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D3LSTZHV?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0D3LSTZHV.json", "price": { "amount": 10.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Limited time deal", "note": null, "basis": "Amazon deal badge" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:32:19.506Z", "rating": 4.6, "ratings": 1008, "boughtLastMonth": "2K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Over the Door Shoe Organisers" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Deep angled pockets hold shoes securely", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Strong fabric that copes with daily use", "count": 6 }, { "text": "Pockets also hold hats, small bags and bottles, not just shoes", "count": 4 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "The door hooks can bend or stop the door shutting", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Lifewit 6-tier over-door organiser", "ourTake": "It is 42 cm wide and about 120 cm long, with pockets for up to 12 pairs of shoes and hooks for doors 3.5 to 4.5 cm thick, the listing says. Lifewit suggests the pockets for toiletries, water bottles and other daily things too, which frees a shelf somewhere else." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "Stick-on hooks where a door will not do", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/#role-stick-on-hooks", "quantity": "1 pack of 7", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0D5HKCYY1", "name": "Command Large Utility Hooks", "amazonTitle": "Command Large Utility Hooks, White, 7 Hooks and 12 Adhesive Strips | Value Pack, Adhesive Wall Hooks, Damage-Free Hanging for Coats, Bags, Towels and Other Household Items, Holds up to 2.2 kg", "brand": "Command", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41+PTlh3T2L._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D5HKCYY1?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0D5HKCYY1.json", "price": { "amount": 13.95, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": { "amount": 12.55, "currency": "GBP" }, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T03:00:56.185Z", "rating": 4.4, "ratings": 38485, "boughtLastMonth": "5K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 4, "category": "Multi-Purpose Hooks" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Hold firmly enough for bags, towels or a heavy hoodie", "count": 3 }, { "text": "Buyers stress cleaning the surface well before sticking", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Not as secure as screws, and some came off within days", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Command large utility hooks (7)", "ourTake": "Seven large hooks with 12 adhesive strips, so there are spares, with a holding power of 2.2 kg on smooth indoor surfaces such as painted walls, tiles and wood, the listing says. It also says they remove cleanly from many surfaces, but mydeposits says adhesives such as Command Strips can cause problems where a landlord does not allow them, so check your tenancy agreement first." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "mydeposits: Get your deposit back, Blu Tack facts", "url": "https://www.mydeposits.co.uk/content-hub/get-your-deposit-back-blu-tack-facts/", "checked": "2026-10-17" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] }, { "id": "floor", "label": "Floor space", "intro": null, "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "A clothes rail with a shelf, if there is no wardrobe", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/#role-clothes-rail", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0FLPP2MD6", "name": "SONGMICS Clothes Rail on Wheels", "amazonTitle": "SONGMICS Clothes Rail on Wheels, Holds up to 50 kg, 38 x 110 x 141.5 cm | Clothes Rack, Coat Rack, tidy rack, Coat Rack, 2 Lockable Wheels, Bedroom, Ink Black, PATAYE Collection HSR016BH01", "brand": "SONGMICS", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/4103zL66WfL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FLPP2MD6?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0FLPP2MD6.json", "price": { "amount": 14.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Worth waiting", "note": "on offer 16 of 31 days, not today", "basis": "our daily price checks" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:42:42.807Z", "rating": 4.6, "ratings": 973, "boughtLastMonth": "2K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 2, "category": "Tidy Rails" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Feels sturdy and stable", "count": 7 }, { "text": "Easy to assemble, with the tools in the box", "count": 6 }, { "text": "The wheels make it easy to move around", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "SONGMICS clothes rail on wheels, 110 cm", "ourTake": "A 110 cm rail on a frame 38 cm deep that holds up to 50 kg, with low bars for shoes or boxes and four wheels, two with brakes, the listing says. It stands on its own, so nothing is fixed to the wall, and it can roll out of the way." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "A slim shelving unit for a narrow gap", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/#role-slim-shelf", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0F32CJH4Y", "name": "VASAGLE Toolless Assembly 5-Tier Storage Shelf", "amazonTitle": "VASAGLE Toolless Assembly 5-Tier Storage Shelf, 38 x 23.8 x 139 cm | Standing Shelving Unit, Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen, Rustic Brown and Ink Black, BRAYLIN Collection LLS135K01", "brand": "VASAGLE", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41koce0lw7L._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F32CJH4Y?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0F32CJH4Y.json", "price": { "amount": 20.39, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Real deal today", "note": null, "basis": "our daily price checks" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T03:41:54.282Z", "rating": 4.6, "ratings": 666, "boughtLastMonth": "50+", "categoryRank": { "position": 12, "category": "Standing Shelf Units" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Goes together in minutes without any tools", "count": 7 }, { "text": "Sturdy and smart looking", "count": 5 }, { "text": "The slim size suits small kitchens and narrow corners", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "VASAGLE 5-tier slim shelf, 38 cm", "ourTake": "Five shelves on a 38 x 23.8 cm footprint, 139 cm tall, put together without tools, the listing says. Each shelf takes 6 kg, 30 kg in all, so it suits books, towels and toiletries rather than heavy boxes. If you want it fixed to the wall, Shelter's advice is to get your landlord's agreement in writing first." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "Shelter England: Making improvements to your rented home", "url": "https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/repairs/making_improvements_to_your_rented_home", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "Slim hangers to fit more on the rail", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-small-flat-with-no-storage/#role-hangers", "quantity": "1 pack of 20", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B01BRDU22O", "name": "SONGMICS Velvet Hangers", "amazonTitle": "SONGMICS Velvet Hangers, Set of 20, Non-Slip, Space-Saving, 0.6 cm Thick | Clothes Coat Hangers, 42.7 cm Long, with Tie Bar and 360° Swivel Hook, Grey, BREANNA Collection CRF20V", "brand": "SONGMICS", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41bEhzDfkAL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01BRDU22O?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B01BRDU22O.json", "price": { "amount": 8.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T03:36:00.807Z", "rating": 4.7, "ratings": 39956, "boughtLastMonth": "1K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 9, "category": "Standard Hangers" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "The velvet grip stops clothes sliding off", "count": 7 }, { "text": "So thin that noticeably more fits on the rail", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Strong enough for heavier things such as coats", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "SONGMICS velvet hangers (20)", "ourTake": "Each hanger is 0.6 cm thick, with a velvet surface that stops clothes slipping and a 5 kg load limit, the listing says, so more fits on a short rail. Leave a little space between clothes all the same: Adur & Worthing Councils say overfilled wardrobes stop air circulating, which invites mould." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "Adur & Worthing Councils: Damp and mould", "url": "https://www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/housing/conditions-and-empty-properties/damp-and-mould/", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] } ], "totals": { "today": { "amount": 104.88, "currency": "GBP", "itemsPriced": 8, "itemsMissingPrice": 0 }, "monthlyRunningCost": null }, "canWait": [ { "what": "Wall shelves and brackets", "why": "Shelter tells renters to check the tenancy agreement and get the landlord's agreement in writing before making changes. Some landlords agree as long as you put things back the way they were when you leave." } ], "skip": [ { "what": "Shoe racks or boxes for the communal corridor", "why": "London Fire Brigade says communal corridors and staircases in blocks of flats must be kept free from clutter, which can block the escape route, add fuel to a fire and delay firefighting." }, { "what": "Hooks or organisers on your flat's front door", "why": "London Fire Brigade says fire doors are a legal requirement for flats that open onto shared communal areas, should be kept self-closing, and that the seals and gaps around the frame are vital." } ], "questions": [ { "question": "How can I add storage to a small flat without drilling?", "answer": "Use the space under the bed, the backs of doors and free-standing furniture. Low under-bed bags and vacuum bags take bedding and winter clothes, over-door hooks and pockets take coats and shoes, stick-on hooks cover the gaps, and a clothes rail and a slim shelf stand on the floor. Measure the gap under the bed and the thickness of each door first." }, { "question": "Can I put up shelves in a rented flat?", "answer": "Only with your landlord's agreement. Shelter says not to make improvements without permission, to get the agreement in writing before you start, and to check your tenancy agreement, since you might need permission for smaller changes too. Some landlords agree if you put things back when you leave. In one deposit dispute mydeposits describes, a tenant put up shelves without permission, and the landlord was awarded part of the deposit to repair the holes left in the walls." }, { "question": "Is it OK to vacuum pack a duvet?", "answer": "Yes, if you do not squash it too tightly. Slumberdown says vacuum storage bags help when space is limited, but compressing a duvet too tightly can damage the filling over time. Make sure it is clean and completely dry first, to prevent mould and mildew, Slumberdown and Silentnight both say. Silentnight's own advice for spare duvets is a breathable storage bag." }, { "question": "Can I keep things in the hallway of my block of flats?", "answer": "No. London Fire Brigade says communal corridors and staircases must be kept free from clutter, including pushchairs, e-bikes, e-scooters and rubbish, because they can block your escape route, add fuel to a fire and delay firefighting. Keep bikes, boxes and shoe racks inside your own flat." } ], "sources": [ { "name": "Shelter England: Making improvements to your rented home", "url": "https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/repairs/making_improvements_to_your_rented_home", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "mydeposits: Get your deposit back, Blu Tack facts", "url": "https://www.mydeposits.co.uk/content-hub/get-your-deposit-back-blu-tack-facts/", "checked": "2026-10-17" }, { "name": "mydeposits: Resolution case study, alterations without permission", "url": "https://www.mydeposits.co.uk/content-hub/deposit-dispute-case-study-alterations-to-the-property-without-permission-damage/", "checked": "2026-10-17" }, { "name": "Slumberdown: How should I store my bedding?", "url": "https://slumberdown.co.uk/blogs/news/how-should-i-store-my-bedding", "checked": "2026-10-17" }, { "name": "Silentnight: Duvet buying guide", "url": "https://www.silentnight.co.uk/blog/guides/duvet-buying-guide", "checked": "2026-10-17" }, { "name": "London Fire Brigade: Purpose built flat or maisonette", "url": "https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/the-home/escape-plan/escape-plan-blocks-of-flats/", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "London Fire Brigade: Fire doors", "url": "https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/property-management/fire-doors/", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "Adur & Worthing Councils: Damp and mould", "url": "https://www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/housing/conditions-and-empty-properties/damp-and-mould/", "checked": "2026-09-27" } ], "related": [ { "title": "What to buy for a first flat", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-first-flat/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-first-flat.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for a university room", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-university-room/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-university-room.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for mould on clothes in the wardrobe", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/mould-on-clothes-in-wardrobe/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/mould-on-clothes-in-wardrobe.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for moving-out cleaning", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/moving-out-cleaning/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/moving-out-cleaning.json" } ] }