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    Fire, pests and odors in waste storage areas – how to prevent them

    2026-06-30
    9 min

    Three risks to build away

    Waste areas account for a significant proportion of arson fires in multi-family houses, while open bins attract rats, seagulls, and flies. Most of this can be prevented during the design phase.

    Fire Protection

    • Place detached units at a proper distance from facades and windows.
    • Lock the space – arson fires require access.
    • Keep the area free from bulky waste and cardboard on the floor.
    • Use non-combustible or flame-retardant materials where fire requirements apply.

    Pests

    Tight constructions without gaps at ground level, intact hatches, and bins with lids. Composite has no joints where rodents can bite their way in, unlike worn wood. See our bin housings and environmental houses.

    Odor

    Cross-ventilation, washable floors, and more frequent collection of food waste in summer are the three most important measures. Requirements for ventilation and cleanability are also stated in Boverket's building regulations for waste areas.

    We help you design a safe waste area – info@compfence.se.

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