Legionella Risk Assessment: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn what landlords need to know about Legionella risk assessments to ensure health and safety compliance in their properties.
A Legionella risk assessment is a required check designed to identify and manage the risks of Legionella bacteria within water systems.
Who it's for
This requirement is mandatory for all landlords. Whether you manage a single residential unit or a large portfolio of properties, you are responsible for ensuring the water systems within your buildings are assessed for these specific health risks.
What you get
The primary benefit of this process is health safety compliance. By conducting these assessments, you ensure that your properties meet the necessary regulatory standards required to protect occupants from bacteria that can grow in water systems.
What it costs you
The main cost is the time required to conduct a simple assessment of your water systems. While the rules do not specify a fixed frequency for how often you must perform these checks, you are required to review your assessment to ensure it remains current and accurate. This means you must stay proactive in monitoring your water systems to maintain your compliance status.
The catch to know
The most common mistake is assuming that these assessments only apply to large commercial buildings or complex industrial sites. This is a common misconception; landlords must remember that the requirement applies to all properties under their management, regardless of size.
How to apply
- Identify all water systems within your managed properties.
- Conduct a simple assessment to check for potential Legionella risks.
- Review your assessment regularly to ensure it stays up to date with any changes in your property's water usage or system setup.
- Use the official portal for detailed guidance on your responsibilities: https://www.hse.gov.uk/legionnaires/what-you-must-do.htm