If you are a commercial tenant with roller shutter doors, it is essential to understand your legal duties and responsibilities. Roller shutters are classed as work equipment, and when they are not properly maintained, they can cause serious accidents, business disruption, and significant financial or legal consequences. Knowing where your responsibilities lie helps you stay compliant, protect your staff and customers, and avoid costly disputes with your landlord.
Why Legal Responsibility Matters
Roller shutter doors operate using powerful motors, springs, and moving components. When these systems fail, they can cause injuries, trap vehicles, damage stock, or compromise security. UK workplace regulations, including PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations), require all powered doors to remain safe and well maintained. As a commercial tenant, you must ensure that the roller shutters in your premises do not pose a risk to anyone using the building.
Who Is legally Responsible for Roller Shutter Maintenance?
Your lease agreement determines who is legally responsible for maintenance and servicing:
✔ If your lease makes you responsible
You must arrange regular maintenance and ensure the shutters remain safe and fully operational. Failing to do so may leave you liable for accidents, repairs, or legal action.
✔ If your lease makes the landlord responsible
The landlord must organise inspections and repairs. However, you must still report any faults immediately. Ignoring a problem may still put some liability on you if damage or injury occurs.
✔ If the lease is unclear
You should clarify responsibility in writing as soon as possible. If responsibility is undefined, both parties could face complications if an accident happens.
Stay Safe, Compliant, and Protected
Understanding your legal duties helps you keep your premises safe and avoid unnecessary risks. Regular roller shutter maintenance protects your staff, customers, and business operations—regardless of who is responsible under the lease.
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