
Every building is different, and so is every water system, so there is no single legionella risk assessment price that suits every property. What we can do is explain what goes into an assessment, what the law expects and how to avoid paying for things you do not need.
We tailor each assessment to your property and its water systems. A single rental property with a hot water cylinder and pipework needs a legionella risk assessment, and so does a hospital, hotel, school or large industrial site. The systems we look at can include hot and cold water tanks, cylinders, pipework, showers, taps, cooling towers and spa pools.
That is why we begin with a consultation and site survey. We talk through your water systems and your concerns, then walk through your facility to spot any immediate risks.
A proper assessment is far more than a quick visual check.
We examine tanks, cylinders, pipe runs, showers and taps, and we measure water temperatures because legionella thrives between 20°C and 45°C. We also look for areas where water can stagnate, dead legs in pipework, infrequently used outlets and inadequate temperatures.
We consider who could be affected, including tenants, staff, visitors and vulnerable people such as the elderly, smokers and those with health conditions.
We recommend control measures, which can include flushing regimes, temperature adjustments, tank cleaning, removal of dead legs and monitoring requirements. You also receive a written record. This is your legal evidence of compliance, and it is the first thing the HSE will ask for if they investigate.
Many people assume legionella testing is a legal requirement, but in most cases it is not. You must carry out a risk assessment, and that assessment shows whether testing is needed. Testing is a tool, not the starting point. It is often recommended when a system is complex, a property is high risk, such as a care home or hotel, or control measures need to be verified. Our guide on testing for legionella yourself explains the difference in more detail.
Professionals see these issues time and time again:
Any of these can lead to non-compliance.
The law allows landlords to carry out their own water risk assessment, but the HSE states that the person must be competent. That means understanding water systems, legionella growth factors, legal guidance such as ACOP L8 and HSG274, and appropriate control measures. Many landlords, managing agents and businesses choose specialists like us for this reason.
Failure to manage legionella risks can lead to hefty fines and legal consequences. An outbreak can also be costly in terms of health-related expenses and damage to your business reputation. Taking proactive steps helps to minimise the need for emergency interventions.
There is no fixed time period written into law for reviewing a risk assessment. HSE guidance says a review should take place when the water system changes, when the building use changes or if there is reason to think the assessment is no longer valid. Many people also review periodically as good practice, commonly every two years. Our guide to legionella risk assessments and UK law covers this in more detail.
Tell us about your property and we will talk you through what your legionella risk assessment involves, without unnecessary testing or costs. Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the uncertainty out of legionella control.
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