How Do I Know If My Property is Likely to be High Risk?

Most domestic properties and their associated water systems present a low risk. However, it is important to undertake satisfactory risk assessments to establish this risk and introduce any control measures required to minimise risk.

What Do I Need To Do?

Whilst there is a duty to assess the risk from exposure to Legionella to ensure the safety of tenants, this assessment does not generally require an in-depth, detailed assessment.

The risks from hot and cold water systems in residential demises are generally considered to be low. This is largely due to regular daily usage which in turn is sufficient to turn over the entire system.

A simple assessment will often show that there are no real risks, and that any identified have appropriate control measures in place already. If this is the case, no further action will be needed however it is very important that the assessment is reviewed if anything changes in the current system.

Do I need to keep the assessment and how often should it be reviewed?

Landlords are not required by law to keep a copy of the assessment, however it is recommended that you keep a record of it for your own purposes. There is also no requirement to review the assessment on a pre-described frequency, however it is important to review the assessment periodically to ensure that nothing has changed and the current assessment therefore still remains fit for purpose.