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Legionella is a naturally occurring bacteria commonly found in freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. However, it becomes a serious health concern when it grows and spreads in man-made water systems like those found in homes, offices, and rental properties. Under the right conditions, such as stagnant water, moderate temperatures (20–45°C), and the presence of biofilm or scale, Legionella bacteria can multiply to levels that pose a serious risk to human health.
When tiny droplets of contaminated water are inhaled, from something as ordinary as a running tap, shower spray, or even a garden hose, they can transmit Legionella bacteria into the lungs. This can lead to Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially life-threatening form of pneumonia that primarily affects the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, or individuals with respiratory conditions. The illness can be severe, with symptoms including coughing, high fever, shortness of breath, and muscle pain, and in some cases, it can be fatal.
For landlords the issue is more than just a health risk, it’s also a legal responsibility. UK law requires landlords to ensure their rental properties do not pose health hazards to tenants. This includes minimising the risk of Legionella in the property’s water systems.
Under guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and legislation including the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), all landlords, whether they let a single property or manage a portfolio, must assess the risk of Legionella and take appropriate control measures. This doesn’t necessarily mean installing expensive equipment or performing lab tests. In most domestic properties, a simple, practical Legionella risk assessment carried out by a competent person is sufficient to meet your duty of care.
Many rental properties include older plumbing, loft tanks, or are left unoccupied between tenancies, the risk of water stagnation, and therefore bacterial growth can be higher. That’s why it’s important to proactively assess your property’s water systems and take steps to reduce potential exposure.
By arranging a Legionella risk assessment through a local and experienced provider like Prestige Services, landlords can protect both their tenants’ wellbeing and their own legal compliance, all with a straightforward, affordable service.
If you own or manage a rental property you have a legal obligation and duty of care to control the risk of Legionella.
This duty applies to a wide range of property owners and managers, including:
Whether you rent out a single flat or a portfolio of houses, you are legally responsible for ensuring a Legionella risk assessment has been carried out and that any risks have been managed.
If you manage properties for others, the legal responsibility for compliance often sits with you. Many letting agents choose to include Legionella assessments as part of their standard landlord services.
Short-term holiday lets are not exempt. If guests have access to the water system, particularly showers or hot tubs, you are required to assess and control the risk. Properties that remain empty between bookings can pose a higher risk due to water stagnation.
If you manage a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) or a block of flats, your duty to control health risks in communal or shared water systems is especially important. Larger or more complex plumbing layouts may present an increased risk of bacterial growth if not properly maintained.
Having a written assessment from a qualified professional, such as Prestige Services, not only ensures you are compliant but also gives you peace of mind. In the event of a tenant enquiry or local authority inspection, having documentation to show that an assessment has taken place can help protect you from potential legal action.
Even if your rental property is modern and well maintained, you are still required to carry out an assessment. Risk levels may be low in many domestic homes, but that doesn’t remove your obligation under UK health and safety law.
By arranging a professional assessment, you’re protecting your tenants, your property, and your own legal responsibilities as a landlord or managing agent.
At Prestige Services, we carry out thorough, independent assessments our service typically includes:
We review your hot and cold water systems, checking for areas of stagnation, low usage outlets, and pipework dead legs that can encourage bacterial growth.
Legionella thrives between 20°C and 45°C. We test the temperature of stored and distributed water to ensure it’s outside the risk range.
We check the cleanliness, usage, and condition of outlets, showerheads, and storage tanks, with advice on descaling or maintenance where needed.
Our report highlights any risks and provides clear, practical steps for reducing them — such as regular flushing, pipework alterations or simple temperature adjustments.
You'll receive a clear, easy-to-understand report documenting the findings, which can be used to show compliance during inspections or tenant enquiries.
There is no fixed legal timeframe for how often a Legionella risk assessment must be carried out. However, guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is clear: landlords are expected to review their risk assessment regularly to ensure it remains accurate and reflects the current condition and usage of the property.
As a general rule, a Legionella risk assessment should be reviewed at least once every two years for standard residential lettings. However, certain circumstances may warrant more frequent reviews, particularly if the property or its occupancy has changed in any way.
You should consider updating or repeating your assessment if:
Each new tenant brings different usage habits and expectations. Even if the risk remains low, starting a new tenancy is an ideal time to review your assessment and make sure the system is clean and safe.
If any plumbing work has been carried out, such as the installation of new pipework, replacement of water heaters, or changes to heating controls — the risk may have changed. A fresh assessment helps ensure the system remains compliant.
Legionella thrives in stagnant water. If your rental property or surrounding area has been empty for a few weeks or more (as is common between tenancies or in holiday lets), a reassessment is strongly recommended to ensure bacteria hasn’t had a chance to grow.
Any complaints about inconsistent water temperature, low water pressure, unusual smells, or discolouration should prompt an immediate investigation. These may be signs of stagnation, scaling, or bacterial growth within the system.
Larger properties — such as HMOs, properties with additional extensions, or systems with cold water storage tanks or long pipe runs — may require more frequent assessments due to the increased number of outlets and potential dead legs in the system.
While some landlords assume a “one-and-done” approach is sufficient, the duty to manage risk is ongoing. That means it’s not enough to carry out a Legionella assessment once and forget about it. You must be able to demonstrate that you’ve considered changes in risk over time and taken appropriate action when needed.
At Prestige Services, we recommend landlords review their assessment at least every 24 months, or sooner if any of the above changes occur. We also offer reminder services and flexible reinspection packages, making it easy to stay compliant without needing to track dates or legal updates yourself.
Staying proactive with your Legionella assessments not only protects your tenants — it protects you as a landlord by ensuring you’re fully covered in the event of an incident or inspection.
When it comes to landlord responsibilities, having a trusted, local partner makes all the difference. At Prestige Services, we provide professional Legionella risk assessments that are not only compliant but also tailored to suit the practical needs of landlords and letting agents across and the surrounding area.
Here’s why so many local property owners choose us for their assessments:
We’re proud to be a local business. That means we know the area, the property types, and the common plumbing layouts found in both newer developments and older cottages. From period townhouses to countryside barn conversions, our experience gives us the insight to assess your property accurately and give advice that’s relevant. Because we’re independent and not tied to any franchises or national chains, you can rely on us for honest, unbiased assessments that serve your best interests.
We understand that landlords and letting agents often work to tight schedules — especially when properties are between tenants or under time-sensitive management. That’s why we offer flexible, fast appointment slots across and neighbouring areas. We aim to carry out your Legionella assessment promptly and provide your written report within 24 to 48 hours of the assessment, so you can move forward with confidence and minimal delay.
With Prestige Services, there are no hidden charges or confusing extras. Our pricing is transparent and clearly explained upfront. Whether you have one flat or multiple properties, we offer fixed rates for domestic rental assessments, making compliance straightforward and cost-effective. If any further action is needed following your assessment, we’ll provide clear recommendations without pressure or upselling.
Managing properties, whether directly or through an agent can be demanding. That’s why we make the process of arranging a Legionella risk assessment as easy as possible. We’re happy to coordinate directly with tenants to arrange a convenient time, and we’re always available to answer questions or explain the report findings. Our service is designed with landlords in mind, offering a smooth, hands-off process backed by friendly and professional communication.
Working with Prestige Services means choosing a reliable, efficient partner for your Legionella compliance needs. Our reputation is built on clear communication, fair pricing, and consistently high standards of service.
Whether you’re a private landlord with a single property or a letting agent managing multiple lets, Prestige Services offers a reliable, compliant, and hassle-free way to keep your properties safe and legally sound.
📞 Call 0800 228 9574 to speak with a local expert today
📧 Email: leisa@prestigeservices.biz
📝 Or use our Contact Page to request a quote or make a booking
Prestige Services – Trusted by Landlords for Local, Independent Compliance Support
Yes. If you rent out a property, you are legally required to assess the risk from Legionella and manage it accordingly. This applies whether you have one flat or multiple properties.
Landlords can perform a basic assessment if they are competent, but using a professional ensures a thorough inspection and gives you a written record for peace of mind.
Yes — although rare, it can occur. Properties that have been unoccupied or have poorly maintained water systems are especially at risk.
We often liaise directly with tenants to arrange access, making it easy for landlords. We also offer advice for tenants on good water usage practices.
Our assessments are cost-effective and include the full inspection and written report. For a quote, call 0800 228 9574 or email us at leisa@prestigeservices.biz.
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