Who has duties around Legionella?
HSE guidance applies to employers and people in control of premises, and specifically explains that landlords of residential accommodation have responsibilities to assess and control the risk from exposure to Legionella.
Does every domestic rental property need laboratory sampling?
No. HSE says that in most residential settings the risk is generally low and a simple, proportionate risk assessment may show that the risks are already being properly managed. Routine sampling is not automatically required simply because a property is rented.
What does an assessment look at?
The assessor needs to understand the water system and consider factors such as storage, temperatures, outlets, infrequently used sections, conditions that may encourage bacterial growth and the people who could be exposed.
What happens after the assessment?
If risks are identified, the appropriate control measures depend on the system and circumstances. They may involve temperature management, removing redundant pipework, flushing little-used outlets, cleaning components or other corrective work.
