What is a Property Logbook?

A Property Logbook is an online or digital companion for your home, which captures all of the useful and relevant information about your home in a secure and standardised way. In effect, a Property Logbook is a digital version of all of the documents that you may keep in your attic or that kitchen drawer full of paper and gives the homeowner control and peace of mind.

A well-maintained Property Logbook should be a record of all major events during a building’s lifetime, such as change of ownership, maintenance, refurbishment and other changes to the fabric of the property. The Logbook should ensure that the homeowner has copies of significant documentation and certification relating to these events and should include links to where the relevant information is held on those events on public and/or government repositories.

Do I need a Property Logbook?

Every aspect of managing our homes is quickly moving online. Every organisation that we deal with from the Local Council to utility providers is developing digital services that want you to swap your information with, in a digital format. A Property Logbook is a tool to help you manage these relationships in one place and is a valuable record that grows over time.

When you come to sell or remortgage your property in the future, every piece of information that you will need to assist you in this respect should be stored in one easy to access place, making your life easier.

What information is in a Property Logbook?

• Property Logbooks differ depending on each home. They should include a wide range of information and documentation relating to your property, including:
• Ownership and transfer of ownership details, including Land Registry documentation.
• Maintenance and repair records, such as work carried out, date completed and names of the contractors involved.
• Energy performance certificates and information on the home’s energy efficiency.
• Planning Permission and Building Regulation Consents.
• Warranties and guarantees for appliances and fixtures.
• Insurance policies and claims history.
• Details of any upgrades or renovations, including plans, specifications and costs.
• Health and safety information like gas safety certificates, electrical installation certificates and asbestos surveys.
• Details of any disputes or legal issues related to the property.

The information in the Property Logbook is stored securely under your home’s Unique Property Reference Number, making it confidential. Only those with permission can access and copy the information, giving you complete control.

For instance, if you’re planning to make alterations to your property, you may give a builder access to the Property Logbook.

Similarly, if you are selling or remortgaging your home, you can provide your lawyer with permission to use the Logbook. In both cases, you have the flexibility to determine the terms under which the information can be accessed and used.

When can I use a Property Logbook?

• Storing Service Information: Whenever you get paperwork from service engineers or contractors, you can store the documentation in your Logbook.
• Managing Project Information: You can use your Logbook to manage building and maintenance work, keeping a digital record of all activity relating to your project.
• Lettings & Rental: If you are letting your property out, you can use your Logbook to store and display all of the necessary legal and statutory information that is required of you, as a Landlord.
• Buying and Selling: You can use your Logbook to deliver all of the data and documentation required to market and sell your home to your appointed estate agent and property lawyer.

Where can I get a Property Logbook for my home?

Several websites offer Property Logbook Services and it would be sensible to ensure that you use one that is a member of the Residential Logbook Association as a Property Logbook supplier that is a member of the Residential Logbook Association will be guaranteed to provide a Logbook that is compatible with all of the relevant systems and organisations that you will need to connect to at various points in your property’s life.

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