As a letting agent or landlord, keeping your tenants safe isn’t just good business—it’s the law. Among the areas that are regularly neglected in property management is Legionella risk assessment.
Legionella bacteria can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia that is acquired by inhaling contaminated water droplets. Any building with a water system, ranging from an individual rental property to an entire block of flats, has the potential to be a danger if not periodically inspected and maintained.
When Legionella-containing water is aerosolised, for example, by showers or taps, it becomes possible to inhale it, which might lead to Legionnaires’ disease, which can be fatal, particularly in the elderly or in individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Why is a Legionella Risk Assessment Required?
Legislation on health and safety obliges property managers and landlords to evaluate and mitigate the risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria in rental premises. The danger in most homes is low, but a thorough evaluation can detect any potential risks and recommend measures to counteract them.
A risk assessment will usually include:
- Determining possible sources of risk within the water system of the property.
- Testing for water temperature and conditions that support bacterial growth.
- Checking tanks, pipework, and water outlets for potential hazards such as stagnation or detritus.
- Offering advice on maintenance and water usage to discourage the growth of Legionella.
How Frequently Should Legionella Risk Assessments Be Conducted?
There isn’t a specific frequency prescribed in legislation, but it is prudent practice to update the assessment from time to time, especially when:
- There are alterations to the water system or its operation.
- The property has been empty for some time.
- There are new tenants taking occupation.
- Regular inspections, flushing out unused outlets, and maintaining water temperatures outside the Legionella risk zone are sound preventative measures.
How No Letting Go Helps Landlords
No Letting Go offers independent Legionella risk assessments as part of our property reporting services, ensuring landlords comply with their requirements without any inconvenience. Our qualified inspectors conduct comprehensive examinations of your water system at your property, document their findings concisely, and provide actionable recommendations to ensure your tenants’ safety and your property’s compliance.
Our on-cloud reporting system enables easy booking of assessments and provides access to reports whenever required, offering landlords and agents a comprehensive audit trail of compliance for their records.
Advantages of Periodical Legionella Risk Assessments
Safeguards Tenant Safety – Avoids the risk of Legionnaires’ disease.
Saves Legal Compliance – Complies with your legal duty under the health and safety legislation.
Facilitates Maintenance Planning – Identifies areas that require attention before matters get out of hand.
Gives Peace of Mind – Shows proactive management to tenants and insurers.
Legionella risk assessments are a straightforward yet essential component of prudent property management. By acting proactively to evaluate and manage risks in your water systems, you keep your tenants safe, remain compliant, and avoid the expense of future issues.
If you have rental properties, now is the ideal time to re-examine your Legionella risk assessment process. By working with an independent inspection service, you can have this crucial area of compliance addressed with simplicity, professionalism, and attention to detail
