Legionella Risk Assessment for UK Landlords

Managing rental properties involves many responsibilities, and one critical area is ensuring the safety of tenants from health risks. One such risk is Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires' disease, a potentially fatal form of pneumonia. Understanding and managing this risk is essential for landlords in the UK. This post explains what a legionella risk assessment involves, why it matters, and how to carry it out effectively.

Understanding Legionella and the Importance of a Legionella Risk Assessment

Legionella bacteria thrive in water systems, especially where water is stored or stagnates between 20°C and 45°C. Common sources include hot and cold water systems, cooling towers, and decorative fountains. When inhaled through contaminated water droplets, the bacteria can cause Legionnaires' disease.

A legionella risk assessment identifies potential sources of risk in a property’s water system. It helps landlords take steps to control or eliminate these risks, protecting tenants and complying with legal duties.

Key reasons to conduct a legionella risk assessment include:

• Protecting tenant health by preventing Legionnaires' disease outbreaks.

• Meeting legal obligations under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.

• Avoiding costly legal action and reputational damage.

• Maintaining property value by ensuring safe and compliant water systems.

  
  

Water tank and pipe system in a residential property

How to Conduct a Legionella Risk Assessment

Carrying out a legionella risk assessment involves a systematic review of the water systems in your property. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Identify and assess potential sources of risk

   Check all water systems, including hot and cold water tanks, pipework, showers, taps, and any other water outlets.

   
   

2. Evaluate the likelihood of bacteria growth and spread

   Look for conditions that encourage Legionella growth, such as stagnant water, temperatures between 20°C and 45°C, and the presence of sludge or scale.

   
   

3. Decide on control measures

   Implement actions to reduce risk, such as flushing unused outlets, maintaining water temperatures outside the risk range, cleaning tanks, and removing dead legs in pipework.

   
   

4. Record findings and actions

   Keep a written record of the assessment, risks identified, and control measures taken. This documentation is essential for compliance and future reference.

   
   

5. Review and update regularly

   Repeat the assessment at least every two years or sooner if there are changes to the water system or if an incident occurs.

   
   

If you are unsure about any part of the process, consider hiring a qualified professional to carry out the assessment.

Do landlords have to do a legionella risk assessment?

Yes, landlords have a legal duty to manage the risk of Legionella in their rental properties. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear guidance stating that landlords must assess and control the risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria.

This duty applies to all landlords, whether managing a single property or multiple units. Failure to comply can lead to enforcement action, fines, or prosecution.

To meet these obligations, landlords should:

• Conduct a thorough legionella risk assessment.

• Implement and maintain control measures.

• Keep records of assessments and maintenance.

• Provide information to tenants about any risks and precautions.

  
  

By taking these steps, landlords demonstrate due diligence and commitment to tenant safety.

Landlord inspecting water heater for safety compliance

Practical Tips for Managing Legionella Risks in Rental Properties

Managing legionella risks can seem daunting, but practical steps make it manageable:

• Maintain water temperatures: Keep hot water stored above 60°C and distributed above 50°C. Cold water should be stored and distributed below 20°C.

• Regularly flush unused outlets: This prevents water stagnation, which encourages bacterial growth.

• Clean and descale water systems: Remove sludge, scale, and biofilm that can harbour bacteria.

• Inspect and maintain tanks and pipework: Check for leaks, corrosion, and dead legs where water can stagnate.

• Keep clear records: Document all inspections, maintenance, and risk assessments.

• Inform tenants: Provide guidance on flushing taps after periods of non-use, especially in vacant properties.

  
  

Using a trusted partner for compliance can simplify this process. They can provide expert assessments, certification, and ongoing support to keep your properties safe and compliant.

Staying Compliant with Confidence

Managing legionella risks is a vital part of property compliance. By understanding the risks and following a clear process, landlords can protect tenants and meet their legal duties without stress.

If you want to ensure your properties are fully compliant, consider working with a specialist provider. They can handle the entire process, from risk assessment to certification, making it simple and reliable.

For more detailed guidance and professional support, visit legionella risk assessment for landlords.

Taking proactive steps today helps avoid costly problems tomorrow and ensures your properties remain safe and attractive to tenants.