DIY Legionella Risk Assessment Order


DIY Legionella Risk Assessment Guide

The legionella risk assessment for rental properties aims to address the potential presence of legionella bacteria in water systems and provide tenants with practical guidance. While a prepopulated template contains most of the necessary information, landlords must take additional practical steps to ensure the assessment is both compliant and accurate.

Step 1:

To ensure compliance in a legionella risk assessment, verify that the cold water from taps runs below 20°C. If water is supplied directly from the mains and not through a cold storage tank, it will typically meet this requirement. Properties with combi boilers usually have cold water fed directly from the mains, as cold storage tanks are often removed when such boilers are installed.

Step 2:

For legionella risk compliance, ensure hot water runs above 50°C, ideally at 60°C when using combi boilers or electric immersion heaters. If unsure, measure temperatures with a digital thermometer by running water for 30 seconds; cold water should be under 20°C and hot water above 50°C. Temperatures outside these ranges are very rare.

Step 3:

Ensure water runs freely and that taps are clean and in good condition. If dirt, sediment, or limescale buildup is present, advise tenants to clean the taps thoroughly and regularly, as outlined in the assessment report.

Step 4:

Shower heads should be cleaned thoroughly and regularly to keep them free-running, as highlighted in the assessment. Shower hoses can harbor stagnant water, which may foster legionella growth under certain conditions. Regular cleaning and use of showers are advised to prevent stagnant water buildup in the hose, ensuring safety for tenants.

Step 5:

Properties with non-combi boilers often have a cold water tank, typically in the loft or airing cupboard. To prevent legionella growth, ensure the tank has a lid to stop debris from entering. If debris or limescale is present, the tank should be cleaned.

Step 6:

Spa baths and jacuzzis should be cleaned regularly, as they create fine water particles that can carry legionella bacteria, posing health risks. A recent case highlighted the danger, where a dirty jacuzzi led to three deaths, and the owner was fined £200,000.

Step 7:

“Dead legs” are unused, capped pipework still connected to the main water system, which can hold stagnant water. If water in these pipes is between 20°C and 45°C, it can foster legionella growth. Disturbing this water could cause serious illness. Identify and, if possible, remove any dead legs in the property to minimize risk.

Step 8:

Make payment of £15 and submit! Your information will then be processed by our team, you will receive your formal Legionella Risk Assessment in PDF format within 24 hours.