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What is a garage door log book?
A garage door log book is a maintenance record required under BS EN 12635 for UK power-operated doors, documenting the initial installation, every subsequent inspection or service, and any adjustments or repairs carried out. It is typically started by the installer and updated at each service, which usually costs £80–£150.
What goes in it
A log book typically records the installation date and installer, the door and operator model, the results of each inspection including force limitation and photocell checks, any parts replaced or faults found, and the date of the next scheduled service. It creates a traceable maintenance history for the door.
Who needs one
BS EN 12635 applies to power-operated doors generally, and a log book is particularly important in commercial and workplace settings, where it supports the PUWER 1998 duty to keep work equipment maintained. Domestic installations benefit from one too, even without the same statutory workplace duty, since it gives a clear history if a fault develops or the property changes hands.
Questions people ask
- Is a log book a legal requirement for a home garage door?
- BS EN 12635 sets out the log book as part of good installation and maintenance practice for power-operated doors generally, rather than being a distinct standalone legal requirement enforced on private homeowners specifically. It becomes more directly relevant where PUWER 1998 applies, such as workplace premises.
- Who keeps the log book — the installer or the owner?
- The installer typically creates and hands over the log book at installation, after which it is the owner or duty-holder's responsibility to keep it updated at each subsequent service or repair.
- What happens if the log book is lost?
- A lost log book is not usually a safety issue in itself, but it does mean losing the maintenance history for the door. A new one can be started at the next service, though it will not capture the earlier record.
UK standards and regulations referenced
- BS EN 12635
- PUWER 1998
Related
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