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What are Communal Entrance Doors?
Steel communal entrance doors are reinforced door sets designed to secure shared access points in apartment blocks, residential developments, and mixed use buildings. They are built to withstand high levels of daily use while providing long term durability and protection.
Manufactured from heavy duty steel and supplied as complete door assemblies (leaf, frame, glazing, and hardware), they offer a robust alternative to timber or aluminium systems in high traffic environments. Their strength makes them particularly suited to main entrances, secondary access doors, and internal communal corridors.
For enhanced protection, steel communal entrance doors can be specified to recognised security standards such as PAS 24, commonly used in residential and Secured by Design projects, or LPS 1175 for higher-risk applications requiring graded attack resistance.
They are typically integrated with modern access control systems, including intercoms, key fob entry, and electric locking, ensuring controlled access from outside while maintaining safe and compliant egress from inside.
Communal Entrance Door Information and Buying Guide
Types of Communal Entrance Doors
Types of Communal Entrance Doors
Steel communal entrance doors are available in a range of configurations depending on security level, building layout, access control requirements, and fire strategy.
Single Leaf Communal Entrance Doors
The most common configuration for:
- Smaller apartment blocks
- Secondary entrances
- Internal communal corridors
Suitable for controlled access systems and PAS 24 compliance.
Double Leaf Communal Entrance Doors
Used for:
- Main entrances to larger residential developments
- High footfall buildings
- Buildings requiring wider access for moving furniture or equipment
Often fitted with electric locking and access control.
PAS 24 Rated Communal Doors
Enhanced security doors tested to PAS 24, commonly specified in:
- New-build residential developments
- Secured by Design projects
- Multi occupancy buildings
Provides certified resistance to opportunist attack.
LPS 1175 Rated Communal Doors
Higher security options tested to LPS 1175 (A1 and above), suitable for:
- Higher risk residential areas
- Mixed use developments
- Buildings with elevated security requirements
Provides graded resistance to forced entry.
Glazed Communal Entrance Doors
Incorporate large glazed panels to:
- Improve visibility and safety
- Increase natural light
- Enhance the appearance of the entrance
Security rated glazing can be specified where required.
Fire Rated Communal Doors
Where required by the fire strategy, communal entrance doors may also provide fire resistance (e.g. FD60), particularly for internal corridor separation.
Steel communal entrance doors can combine security certification, glazing, fire resistance, and access control, provided all elements remain within certified test evidence and regulatory requirements.
Design & Cutomisation
Design & Cutomisation
Steel communal entrance doors can be tailored to meet security, aesthetic, access control, and regulatory requirements, while maintaining certification where applicable (e.g. PAS 24 or LPS 1175).
Door Configuration
- Single leaf doors
- Double leaf doors for wider entrances
- Side panels and overpanels
- Made-to-measure sizing
Configuration will depend on traffic flow and building layout.
Security Rating Options
Doors can be specified to:
- PAS 24 โ Enhanced residential security
- LPS 1175 - (A1 and above) โ Graded attack resistance for higher-risk applications
Security upgrades must remain within certified test evidence.
Glazing Design
Common in communal entrances to improve visibility and appearance:
- Large glazed panels
- Full height vision panels
- Clear, tinted, or obscured glass
- Security-rated glazing (where certified)
Glazing systems must match the doorโs security certification if rated.
Finish and Appearance
- Polyester powder-coated finishes
- Wide RAL colour range
- Frame and leaf colour matching
- Contrasting internal and external finishes
Access Control Integration
Communal doors are frequently integrated with:
- Intercom systems
- Key fob or card access
- Keypads
- Electric strikes
- Magnetic locks
- Automatic door operators
All systems must maintain safe internal egress.
Fire Resistance (If Required)
Where specified by the buildingโs fire strategy, communal doors may be fire-rated (e.g. FD60), with compatible hardware and seals.
External Performance Features
For exposed entrances:
- Weather seals
- Insulated cores
- Thermal performance upgrades
- Compliance with external door standards (where required)
Steel communal entrance doors can combine security certification, glazing, access control, and fire performance, allowing the entrance to be both secure and visually appropriate for the building design.
Applications
Applications
Steel communal entrance doors are used wherever shared access points require durability, controlled entry, and enhanced security. They are commonly specified in multi-occupancy buildings where managing resident access and protecting communal areas is essential.
Apartment Blocks
Installed as:
- Main front entrances
- Secondary side entrances
- Rear access points
- Internal communal corridor doors
Often integrated with intercom and fob entry systems.
Residential Developments
Used in:
- Gated housing schemes
- Shared courtyard entrances
- Low rise flats
- Private rental developments
Frequently specified to PAS 24 for residential compliance.
Student Accommodation
Installed at:
- Main building entrances
- Block entrances within larger campuses
- Internal shared areas
Designed to handle high traffic and frequent access control use.
Sheltered and Assisted Living Facilities
Used for:
- Controlled building entry
- Secure internal communal zones
- Protected residential corridors
Often combining security with accessibility requirements.
Mixed Use Developments
Installed in buildings that combine:
- Retail units
- Offices
- Residential apartments
Higher security options such as LPS 1175 may be specified where risk levels are elevated.
Public and Community Buildings
Used for:
- Community centres
- Shared workspace buildings
- Multi-tenant offices
Providing durable and secure shared access.
Steel communal entrance doors are selected wherever shared buildings require reliable, secure, and controlled entry, with certification levels tailored to the buildingโs security and regulatory requirements.
Features & Benefits
Features & Benefits
Steel communal entrance doors are designed to provide secure, durable, and controlled access for shared buildings, balancing high traffic performance with regulatory compliance.
Enhanced Security Performance
Available with recognised certifications such as:
- PAS 24 โ Enhanced residential security
- LPS 1175 โ Graded attack resistance for higher-risk sites
Benefit: Independently tested protection against forced entry, supporting insurer and Secured by Design requirements.
Robust Steel Construction
Manufactured from reinforced steel door leaves and frames.
Benefit: High durability in heavy-use environments, resistance to impact and vandalism, and long service life compared to timber alternatives.
Integrated Access Control
Compatible with:
- Intercom systems
- Key fob and card access
- Keypads
- Electric locking systems
Benefit: Controlled external access while maintaining safe and compliant internal egress.
Glazed Options for Visibility
Large glazed panels can be incorporated, including security rated glazing.
Benefit: Improved visibility, enhanced safety in entrance areas, and increased natural light.
Suitable for External Exposure
External communal entrance doors can include:
- Weather seals
- Insulated cores
- Thermal upgrades
Benefit: Reliable performance in exposed environments and improved energy efficiency.
Optional Fire Resistance
Where required by the fire strategy, communal doors can be specified as fire-rated.
Benefit: Maintains compartmentation and protects internal escape routes.
Wide Range of Finishes
Available in various powder-coated RAL colours and modern finishes.
Benefit: Matches building design while delivering high security.
Low Maintenance
Steel construction resists warping, splitting, and environmental damage.
Benefit: Reduced long-term maintenance costs and consistent performance.
Steel communal entrance doors provide a secure, durable, and access controlled solution for multi occupancy buildings, combining certified protection with long term reliability.
Compliance & Safety
Compliance & Safety
Steel communal entrance doors must comply with a combination of security, fire, escape, and external product standards, depending on their function within the building.
Security Standards
PAS 24
Commonly specified for residential and multi occupancy buildings.Provides enhanced resistance to opportunist attack and is often required for:
- New-build housing
- Apartment developments
- Secured by Design projects
LPS 1175
Provides graded attack resistance (A1 and above) for higher-risk applications.Often required where insurer-driven security performance is specified.
Fire Resistance (If Required)
If the communal entrance door forms part of a fire compartment or protected corridor, it must comply with:
- BS EN 1634-1 โ Internal fire doors
- BS EN 16034 โ External fire-resisting doors (used with BS EN 14351-1)
Fire ratings such as FD60 may be required depending on the buildingโs fire strategy.
Emergency Escape Compliance
Where the door is on an escape route, hardware must comply with:
- BS EN 1125 โ Panic exit devices (public buildings)
- BS EN 179 โ Emergency exit devices (staff or controlled occupancy buildings)
Doors must allow immediate egress without the use of a key.
External Door Compliance
For externally exposed communal entrance doors, compliance may include:
- BS EN 14351-1 โ External pedestrian doorsets
- CE and/or UKCA marking
- Declaration of Performance (DoP)
This covers weather resistance, wind load, and air permeability.
Accessibility Requirements
Communal entrance doors must comply with:
Approved Document M (Access to and Use of Buildings)
This may affect:
- Clear opening widths
- Threshold heights
- Door hardware usability
- Automatic door operators
Electrical and Access Control Safety
Where integrated with intercoms, magnetic locks, or electric strikes:
- Must comply with electrical safety regulations
- Must provide fail safe egress
- Must align with the buildingโs fire strategy
Installation Compliance
To maintain certification:
- Door sets must be installed according to manufacturer instructions
- Fixings and hardware must match tested specification
- No unauthorised modifications
When correctly specified and installed, steel communal entrance doors can meet security certification (PAS 24 or LPS 1175), fire safety regulations, escape standards, accessibility requirements, and external product compliance, ensuring both safety and long-term performance in shared buildings.
Installation & Maintenance
Installation & Maintenance
Steel communal entrance doors must be installed correctly to maintain security certification, safe egress, and long-term durability. Where certified to PAS 24 or LPS 1175, installation must strictly follow the tested specification.
Installation Requirements
Install to Certified Specification
For security rated doors:
- Fixings must match tested detail
- Correct fixing centres must be used
- Frame must be anchored into structural substrate (masonry, concrete, structural steel)
- Hardware must match certified configuration
Incorrect installation can invalidate PAS 24 or LPS 1175 certification.
Frame Alignment and Structural Fixing
- Frame must be square, plumb, and level
- No excessive gaps between frame and wall
- Suitable packers must be used
- All fixings must penetrate solid structural material
Poor alignment affects locking performance and longevity.
Locking and Access Control Installation
- Electric strikes or magnetic locks must be correctly aligned
- Intercom and access control wiring must be professionally installed
- Fail-safe egress must always be maintained
- Internal release must operate immediately without obstruction
Where the door forms part of an escape route, hardware must comply with BS EN 1125 or BS EN 179.
Fire-Rated Installation (If Applicable)
If the communal entrance door is fire-rated:
- Installation must comply with BS EN 1634-1 (internal) or BS EN 16034 (external)
- Intumescent and smoke seals must be correctly fitted
- Approved fire-stopping materials must be used around the frame
- Door must self-close and latch correctly
External Installation
For externally exposed doors:
- Weather seals must be properly fitted
- Thresholds must be installed accurately
- Drainage and water run-off considered
- Powder-coated finish protected during installation
Supply and Installation Responsibility
Where supplied only:
- Installer assumes responsibility for maintaining certification
- Installation must follow manufacturer drawings
- Incorrect fitting may void security or fire compliance
Professional installation is strongly recommended for certified door sets.
Maintenance Requirements
Communal entrance doors experience high daily usage and should be regularly inspected.
Routine Inspection (Recommended Quarterly)
Check for:
- Smooth opening and closing
- Secure hinge fixings
- Correct lock engagement
- Access control function
- Frame stability
- Seal condition
Hardware and Access Control Maintenance
- Lubricate locks and hinges
- Check electric strikes or magnets
- Confirm intercom and fob access operation
- Test internal release function
External Door Maintenance
- Inspect weather seals
- Check for corrosion
- Maintain powder-coated finish
- Ensure drainage areas are clear
Fire Door Maintenance (If Fire Rated)
- Inspect intumescent and smoke seals
- Confirm self-closing mechanism
- Ensure glazing or louvre panels remain secure
Record Keeping
In multi occupancy buildings, maintenance checks should be recorded as part of building management and fire safety responsibilities.
When correctly installed and regularly maintained, steel communal entrance doors provide long term security, safe access control, and continued compliance with security, fire, and building regulations.
Price Guide
Price Guide
(Indicative UK pricing โ excludes VAT unless stated)
The cost of steel communal entrance doors depends on security certification (PAS 24 or LPS 1175), size and configuration (single or double leaf), glazing extent, access control integration, and installation complexity.
Standard Steel Communal Entrance Door (Single Leaf)
Heavy-duty steel door with glazing and electric locking provision.
- Supply only: From ยฃ1,200 โ ยฃ2,000
- Supplied and installed: From ยฃ2,400 โ ยฃ3,800
Suitable for smaller apartment blocks or secondary entrances.
Double Leaf Communal Entrance Doors
For main entrances with higher footfall.
- Supply only: From ยฃ2,400 โ ยฃ4,500
- Supplied and installed: From ยฃ4,500 โ ยฃ7,500
Pricing varies based on glazing size and hardware specification.
PAS 24 Rated Communal Entrance Doors
Enhanced residential security compliance.
- Supply only: From ยฃ1,800 โ ยฃ3,000
- Supplied and installed: From ยฃ3,500 โ ยฃ5,500
Commonly required for new-build residential developments and Secured by Design projects.
LPS 1175 Rated Communal Entrance Doors
Graded security (A1 and above) for higher-risk applications.
- Supply only: From ยฃ2,800 โ ยฃ5,000+
- Supplied and installed: From ยฃ5,500 โ ยฃ9,500+
Higher grades (e.g. B3 / C5) increase cost significantly.
Fire-Rated Communal Entrance Doors (If Required)
Where FD60 fire resistance is specified:
Additional cost:
- Typically ยฃ600 โ ยฃ1,500+ depending on configuration.
Access Control Systems
Intercoms, fob readers, magnetic locks, or automatic operators may add:
- ยฃ500 โ ยฃ2,500+ depending on system complexity.
What Affects Final Pricing
- Security rating level (PAS 24 vs LPS 1175 grade)
- Single vs double leaf configuration
- Extent and type of glazing
- Access control specification
- Fire rating (if required)
- External performance requirements
- Installation access and structural preparation
Getting an Accurate Quote
Because communal entrance doors are often security certified and integrated with access control systems, accurate opening sizes and performance requirements are essential. A site survey is recommended to ensure correct certification, compliance, and installation pricing.
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Frequently Asked Questions - Communal Entrance Doors
1. What are communal entrance doors used for?
1. What are communal entrance doors used for?
Communal entrance doors provide secure access to shared residential buildings such as apartment blocks and flats. They control entry to the building while allowing safe and convenient access for residents, visitors, and authorised personnel.
2. Can communal entrance doors be integrated with access control systems?
2. Can communal entrance doors be integrated with access control systems?
Yes. Communal entrance doors can be supplied with access control options such as keypads, fob readers, intercoms, and door entry systems. This allows building managers to control and monitor access more effectively.
3. Are communal entrance doors suitable for high traffic areas?
3. Are communal entrance doors suitable for high traffic areas?
They are. Communal doors are designed for frequent daily use and are built using durable materials and components to ensure long term reliability, even in busy residential environments.
4. Can communal entrance doors include glazing?
4. Can communal entrance doors include glazing?
Yes. Glazing and vision panels can be incorporated to improve visibility and natural light while maintaining security. Options include clear, frosted, or reinforced glazing depending on the requirements of the building.
5. Do communal entrance doors need regular maintenance?
5. Do communal entrance doors need regular maintenance?
Routine checks and basic maintenance are recommended to keep communal entrance doors operating smoothly and securely. This includes inspecting locks, hinges, closers, and access control components to ensure continued performance.

