Content note:
This article includes information about hoarding behaviours and home safety. It is intended to support understanding and early help, but some readers may find the content sensitive.
Looking Out for One Another: Raising Concerns about Hoarding
At Magenta, we want everyone to feel safe and secure in their home.
Sometimes, concerns about a property are first noticed by neighbours, and those early signs can make a real difference.
Hoarding is a recognised condition and is not about being untidy or careless. People may find it very difficult to manage belongings or to ask for help, and they may not always recognise the risks in their home. This is why concerns are often raised by others.
What is Hoarding? (Official Definition)
The NHS describes hoarding disorder as a condition where a person collects and keeps a large number of items and finds it very difficult to get rid of them, even when this negatively affects their daily life, health, or safety. Living spaces may become so cluttered that they cannot be used safely or as intended.
What You Might Notice
You do not need to be certain to raise a concern. You might notice things like :
Windows blocked by items
Excessive amounts of items in your neighbour’s garden
Frequently hear reasons why they don’t want people in their property friends/neighbours/repairs
Strong/ persistent smells, pests
You may see lower level hoarding when visiting
Belongings stored in places that limit access to essential facilities such as beds, cookers, toilets
Items spilling into shared spaces, gardens, cars
Items blocking doorways, hallways. balconies or communal areas
Belongings stored in areas that don't seem safe e.g. items near heaters or electrical points
These signs don’t always mean something is wrong on their own, but patterns or signs with a feeling of something just not being quite right can help ensure support is offered and everyone remains safe in their homes.
Why Neighbours Raising Concerns Is Important
At Magenta, keeping people safe in their homes is our top priority. While we’re present in our neighbourhoods, we don’t see inside every home or see each customer every day. Neighbours are often the first to notice when something has changed or when risks may be developing.
Raising a concern is not about blame, judgement, or getting someone into trouble. It helps us check on safety, reduce risks early, and make sure the right support is in place.
Together, we can ensure we are doing the right thing and keeping our homes and communities safe.
What should I do if I Think Someone Needs Support?
If you’re worried about a person who is showing signs of Hoarding behaviour, you can:
Raise concerns with Magenta
We will only share information shared with us internally, or with external agencies such as social care, where necessary to keep people safe.
If you’d like support or want to raise a concern, you can contact our team:
Call us on 0808 100 9596
However if there is an immediate risk or emergency, please contact the emergency services straight away.
Safeguarding works best when people speak up. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to share a concern than to worry alone.