Legionella Risk Assessments: The Legal And Safety Necessity For Landlords

 



When it comes to the management of rental property, keeping tenants safe isn’t only good practice—it’s a requirement under law. Perhaps the most neglected but most important aspect of compliance is risk assessment legionella. In the UK, landlords and letting agents have a statutory obligation to measure and control the risk of Legionella bacteria within their buildings. This easy, though crucial, procedure keeps tenants healthy and shields landlords from expensive fines or legal repercussions.

Legal Duties of Landlords

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Under the 1974 Act and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, landlords are statutorily required to control and assess the risk of Legionella bacteria exposure. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) clearly states that all properties, both large and small, old and new, must have a Legionella risk assessment.

Not doing a risk assessment or following up on findings can cause severe illness and legal action. In extreme instances, landlords can be prosecuted if negligence causes illness.

What a Legionella Risk Assessment Involves

A commercial Legionella risk assessment inspects every water system in a building, such as:

  • Cold and hot water storage vessels
  • Showering and taps
  • Piping, including “dead legs” where water sits still
  • Water temperature control and flow systems

The assessor looks for conditions that help bacteria grow, such as poor water temperatures or lack of use. The assessor then makes suggestions to maintain the system as safe as possible—such as flushing unused outlets, insulating pipes, or changing water temperatures.

According to No Letting Go’s knowledge base, assessments should be carried out by qualified professionals who understand both health and safety standards and property management requirements. Regular reviews are also advised, especially after maintenance work, system alterations, or changes in occupancy.

Maintaining Ongoing Compliance

After an inspection is finished, landlords are required to document their results and the measures taken to minimise risks. Not only does this show due diligence, but it also shields from liability in case of future problems. It’s common practice for landlords to find a reliable property management provider that can arrange for inspections on a routine basis and see that all records are updated accordingly.

With the use of online reporting software, e.g., Kaptur from No Letting Go, landlords and agents can securely view Legionella reports online, monitor compliance deadlines, and maintain an auditable trail—both necessary for fulfilling regulatory requirements.

A Legionella risk assessment is not a mere compliance exercise—it’s a promise to the tenants’ safety and sound property management. By recognising possible hazards beforehand and taking measures, landlords can avoid expensive problems and ensure their properties are safe, compliant, and habitable.

In today’s rental landscape, where legislation and tenant expectations continue to evolve, taking proactive steps like regular Legionella assessments isn’t just good practice—it’s essential protection for both landlords and tenants.

Source: https://articlewaves.com/legionella-risk-assessments-the-legal-and-safety-necessity-for-landlords/


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