Legionella guidance

Introduction

Landlords of residential accommodation have responsibilities for combating Legionnaires' Disease. Health and safety legislation requires that landlords carry out risk assessments for the Legionella bacteria which cause Legionnaires' Disease and thereafter maintain control measures to minimise the risk.

Most rented premises will be low risk but it is important that risk assessments are carried out and control measures introduced.

This page is intended to give a brief guide to prime landlords on their responsibilities in combating legionella. NRLA members also have access to a risk assessment form to help them document the steps they have taken. 

What is Legionnaires' Disease?

Legionnaires' Disease is a pneumonia-like illness caused by the Legionella bacteria and can be fatal. The infection is caused by breathing in small droplets of water contaminated by the bacteria. The disease cannot be passed from one person to another.

Legionella bacteria are found in the natural environment and may contaminate and grow in water systems, including domestic hot and cold water systems. They survive low temperatures and thrive at temperatures between 20 - 45°C if the conditions are right. They are killed by high temperatures at 60°C or above.

Are landlords required to hire a consultant to perform Legionella sampling/testing?

For straightforward residential accommodation the answer to this will usually be "no" as long as landlords are reasonably knowledgeable and competent. Sometimes agents and consultants tell landlords that they need to employ a consultant to conduct an annual check or even to have sampling undertaken. However this is not the case. 

HSE emphasise that legionella testing/sampling is generally not required in domestic hot water systems and then only in exceptional circumstances.

However, if a block of flats are involved, unless each flat has its own self-contained hot and cold water system, a more comprehensive risk assessment may be needed.