As the UK marks Stoptober, AliDeck sheds light on how smoking and vaping are fuelling balcony fire risks — and why non-combustible materials must now be the residential standard.

A Growing Risk in Residential Living

Each year, the UK’s Stoptober campaign helps thousands quit smoking. But beyond the health benefits, there’s another powerful reason to stop — the increasing number of balcony fires linked to cigarettes, disposable vapes, and lithium battery devices.

Balcony fires are one of the fastest-growing fire risks in multi-residential buildings. A single spark from a cigarette or a malfunctioning vape battery can ignite decking, soffits, or façade materials in seconds — particularly when these include combustible timber or composite elements.

At AliDeck, we’ve been researching this danger for years, and the findings are clear: combustible materials and smoking habits create a perfect storm for balcony fires.

The Only Company Collating UK Balcony Fire Data

AliDeck is the only company in the UK to collate and publish national data on balcony fires, producing an annual report that highlights causes, patterns, and the impact of material choices on fire outcomes.

Our research shows that discarded smoking materials remain a leading cause, but the rise in vape-related incidents is now adding a new layer of concern. Lithium batteries used in disposable and rechargeable vapes can overheat, explode, or ignite when damaged or exposed to high temperatures — an especially serious risk when left charging outdoors or thrown from balconies.

These incidents don’t just damage property — they put lives at risk. By analysing this data, we aim to help developers, housing associations, and residents understand how small, avoidable actions can lead to devastating consequences.

(To access our latest report, click here to visit our Balcony Fire Report page.)

Why Non-Combustible Materials Are the Only Safe Choice

Balcony fires are not inevitable — they are preventable through design and specification.

The solution starts with materials that cannot burn.

AliDeck’s complete aluminium balcony systems, covering decking, soffits, and balustrades, are all non-combustible, tested to meet Euroclass A1 or A2 fire ratings. Unlike timber or composite boards, aluminium does not ignite or release toxic smoke, giving residents valuable time to evacuate in the event of a fire.

Under the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), developers and duty holders now have a clear responsibility to prioritise fire-safe design. Choosing non-combustible materials for balconies isn’t just good practice — it’s a legal and moral obligation.

The Overlooked Danger: Vaping Devices on Balconies

The lithium-ion batteries found in vapes are sensitive to heat and impact. If overcharged, punctured, or discarded carelessly, they can enter a state known as thermal runaway, resulting in explosions or fires.

In dense residential environments, where residents often recharge or dispose of vapes on balconies, the risks multiply — especially if combustible decking or cladding is present.

Smoking is now the fastest-growing fire cause, responsible for numerous balcony, vehicle, and waste fires. Combined with the existing threat of smoking materials, they represent a double danger that the construction and housing sectors cannot ignore.

Taking Action This Stoptober

This October, as people across the UK consider quitting smoking or switching to vapes, it’s time for the residential sector to act too. Developers, landlords, and managing agents should use this opportunity to assess the materials used in outdoor spaces — ensuring they meet the highest possible safety standards.

AliDeck supports the residential market by providing:

Non-combustible aluminium decking and soffit systems
Full design and compliance guidance under the Building Safety Act
Remediation and retrofit expertise for existing balcony structures
Technical and specification support for new developments

Every balcony fitted with non-combustible materials is a step towards safer living environments for residents across the UK and Ireland

Building a Safer Future Together

Balcony fires caused by smoking and vaping are entirely preventable — but prevention requires data, awareness, and the right materials.

At AliDeck, we’re committed to leading that change. Through our annual Balcony Fire Report, industry partnerships, and continued product innovation, we’re helping to eliminate fire risks from residential developments for good.

This Stoptober, we’re asking the industry to take action:

• Replace combustible decking and soffit systems
• Review material compliance with Euroclass standards
• Educate residents about the risks of smoking and vaping outdoors
• Choose suppliers with verified, tested fire-safe systems

Contact Us

If you’d like to learn more about our annual Balcony Fire Report or discuss how we can support your next residential project, get in touch today:
info@alideck.co.uk
01622 534050

AliDeck — Complete Balcony Solutions. Built for safety. Built to last.