Planning the mailbox layout in an apartment building is a small detail that has a major impact on tenant usability, fire safety, Royal Mail access, and the overall flow of the lobby or entrance area. Many developers only consider mailboxes at the end of a project — which often leads to delays, placement issues, or non-compliant installation.
This guide shows you exactly how to plan your mailbox layout for any apartment development in 2025.
1. Choose the Right Location in the Building
When designing a mailbox area, the most important considerations are:
- Easy access for Royal Mail staff
- A central, supervised area
- Good visibility and lighting
- Security against theft or vandalism
- Clearance for people entering/exiting the building
The best locations are:
- The main lobby
- A secure entrance hall
- A designated mailroom (for large developments)
Avoid placing mailboxes in:
- Narrow corridors
- Fire escape routes
- Outdoor areas without weather protection
👉 Browse Ryzan’s secure internal mailboxes:
2. Follow Royal Mail Delivery Recommendations
Royal Mail recommends that mailbox apertures should be installed:
- Between 1.05m and 1.7m from the ground
- With no obstruction in front
- In an area accessible without needing assistance
For official guidance:
🔗 https://www.royalmail.com
3. Understand Recessed vs Surface-Mounted Layouts
Surface-Mounted Mailboxes
- Good for HMOs or small blocks
- No wall cutout needed
- Quick installation
Recessed Mailboxes
- Ideal for new-build apartments
- Flush with the wall (safer for corridors)
- Better aesthetics and space saving
Ryzan offers both options:
👉 https://ryzan.co.uk/product-category/mailboxes/
4. Numbering & Tenant Identification
Mailbox numbering should be:
- Clear
- Large enough to read at a glance
- Matching door numbers to avoid confusion
- Engraved or printed, not sticker-based
This reduces tenant/postal errors and enhances the building’s overall finish.
5. Clearance & Fire Safety Considerations
Mailboxes must not obstruct escape routes.
Developers should refer to:
🔗 Fire Safety Guidance (UK Gov)
Where corridors are narrow, choose recessed models to avoid protrusion.
Need Help Planning Your Mailbox Layout?
Ryzan provides developers with:
- Technical drawings
- Layout recommendations
- Bulk and trade pricing
- Fire-safe configurations
👉 Contact our technical team: