Legionella Testing

legionnaires’ disease is a potentially deadly form of pneumonia. People catch legionnaires’ disease by inhaling water droplets, which are contaminated with the legionella bacteria. The disease got its name from the first known cases, which affected a convention of American army veterans in the 1970s. Symptoms include a cough, fever and shortness of breath, and older people or those with weakened immune systems are more likely to be vulnerable.

Legionella bacteria can grow in any hot or cold water system but is most commonly found in systems with cold or hot water tanks where water is stored and can stagnate. Water at temperatures of between 20°C - 45°C is most likely to harbour the bacteria, which can also thrive where there is a build up of sludge, sediment, rust or other debris for it to feed on.

The bacteria can be found where water spray or droplets are present such as in shower heads, jacuzzi and whirlpool baths. Rental properties which are left unoccupied for periods of time, or have little-used outlets i.e. guest bathroom can be more susceptible to a Legionella risk.

When your tenant moves in they should be given a copy of the most recent risk assessment and inform them about the risk that legionella poses especially if they have health issues or are vulnerable. Asking them to help you can also help prevent  risks:

To let you know immediately of any problems with the water system i.e. if they suspect the Hot water temperature has fallen below 50°C or the Cold water is above 20°C.

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If there is any debris or discolouration in the water coming out of the taps/ showers etc

If they are going away for any lengthy periods of time.

To regularly clean shower heads. 

A risk assessment should be  done annually or if your tenant raises any concerns about the water system or you suspect anything has changed. If you also have lead pipes in your property then water sampling should be done to ensure the levels of lead are below the statutory minimum.