Legionnaires Assessments
Landlords have a responsibility to assess the risks of legionella in their properties. Although not a legal requirement, landlords can face prosecution if a tenant contracts Legionnaires' disease.
Legionnaires' Disease
Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia, a lung inflammation usually caused by infection. It is caused by a potentially deadly bacteria known as legionella.
Legionella is commonly found in man-made hot and cold-water systems. Systems that are left unused for some time can become stagnant which can create the perfect environment for legionella bacteria to grow.
Who is responsible for controlling risk?
Landlords and property agents are required to identify and control the risks associated with legionella in their properties.
As a result, landlords are required to have a legionella assessment carried out to monitor and mitigate risk.
While it is not a legal requirement to produce a legionella water sample test certificate, a landlord may be liable to prosecution if a tenant were to contract Legionnaires' disease from the water system in the property.
A landlord is anyone who rents out a property they own under a lease or a licence. This includes residential premises provided for rent by:
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private sector landlords
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housing co-operatives
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housing associations
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local authorities
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hostels
How can we help?
Our trained and competent staff can carry out legionella risk assessments. These assessments highlight potential dangers and allow our staff to make recommendations on actions that should be taken to reduce levels of bacteria where required.
Legionella assessments should be carried out once every two years, or before a new tenancy begins. It’s also recommended to perform a risk assessment if there are significant changes to the water systems within the property.
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Contact us to find out more, discuss your requirements and receive a free no obligation quotation.
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