Is a Legionella risk assessment a legal requirement for landlords?

Yes, under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), landlords must assess and control the risks of exposure to Legionella in their properties.

Do I need water samples taken?

A Legionella risk assessment typically doesn't require water sampling unless the assessment identifies specific high-risk factors or if there's a suspected outbreak. The primary aim is to identify and manage risks through good practice.

How often should a Legionella risk assessment be done?

There's no fixed frequency, but it should be reviewed regularly (e.g., every two years), or if there are changes to the water system, a change in occupancy, or if new information on risks becomes available.

What are the common sources of Legionella in properties?

Common sources include hot and cold water systems, shower heads, hot tubs, and other systems that create fine water droplets and are kept at temperatures suitable for Legionella growth (20-45°C).

Legionella risk check

Book Legionella risk check

A Legionella risk check involves a qualified assessor inspecting your property's water system to identify sources where Legionella bacteria could multiply and spread. This includes checking water temperatures, storage, and pipework. The aim is to minimise the risk of Legionnaires' disease, particularly important for landlords and businesses.

When do you need a Legionella risk check?

A Legionella risk assessment is legally required for landlords of residential properties and those responsible for premises with water systems. It should be reviewed regularly, especially if there are changes to the water system or occupancy.

What happens on the day

A qualified assessor will attend the property to inspect the water system, including cold water tanks, hot water cylinders, showers, and taps. They will take temperature readings and note the condition of pipework and fittings. The assessment does not usually involve water sampling unless significant risks are identified.

How to prepare

Ensure access to all water storage tanks (e.g., loft tanks, hot water cylinders).
Clear access to all taps, showers, and any other water outlets.
Inform the assessor of any recent plumbing work or water system changes.
Ensure someone over 18 is present to provide access.
Be prepared to answer questions about water usage patterns.

How to improve your result

Ensure cold water is kept cold (below 20°C) and hot water hot (above 50°C).
Flush unused outlets (e.g., spare showers) weekly for a few minutes.
Regularly clean and descale shower heads.
Maintain water heaters according to manufacturer instructions.
Keep records of any water system maintenance and checks.

Why it is useful day to day

A Legionella risk check safeguards the health of residents and users of the property's water system, preventing exposure to Legionnaires' disease. For landlords and businesses, it ensures compliance with health and safety regulations.

Why we ask these questions

We ask about the property type and number of bathrooms as this influences the complexity and extent of the water system, and therefore the time required for the assessment. Larger properties or those with multiple outlets may have higher risk factors to evaluate.