Getting the HMO Legionella Risk Assessment

Yes, under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, landlords must assess and manage Legionella risks in their properties. Failure to conduct a Legionella risk assessment could result in legal action and penalties.

While there is no fixed legal timeframe, it is recommended to conduct an assessment at least once a year. Additionally, you should perform a new assessment if there are any significant changes to the property’s water systems or if any potential risks are identified during routine inspections.

If Legionella bacteria are detected, the risk assessment report will include recommendations for corrective actions, such as adjusting water temperatures, cleaning water tanks, or flushing and disinfecting systems. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain tenant safety and legal compliance.

While landlords can carry out basic risk checks, it is advisable to hire a professional Legionella assessor, especially for HMOs with complex water systems. Professionals have the expertise to identify potential risks that may be missed in a self-assessment, ensuring the property is fully compliant.

A comprehensive Legionella risk assessment report will cover:

• An inspection of water tanks, pipework, and storage systems.
• Temperature testing to ensure safe water temperatures are maintained.
• Identification of any areas of stagnation or disrepair.
• Clear recommendations for mitigating and managing any identified risks.

The cost of a Legionella risk assessment near you for an HMO varies depending on the size and complexity of the property. However, investing in a professional assessment ensures that you comply with legal requirements and keep your tenants safe, potentially saving you money in the long term by avoiding legal issues and fines.

Signs that an HMO property may be at risk include:

• Water systems that are not regularly flushed or cleaned.
  Stagnant water in unused pipes or tanks.
• Inconsistent or inadequate water temperatures (below 50°C for hot water or above 20°C for cold water).
• Visible signs of rust, leaks, or damage in water storage systems.
• If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule a professional risk assessment as soon as possible.

Yes, tenants can play a role by ensuring taps and showers are regularly used and reporting any issues with water systems, such as unusual temperatures, discolouration, or stagnant water. Landlords should also educate tenants on best practices for maintaining a safe environment and regularly flushing out little-used outlets.

The duration of a Legionella risk assessment depends on the size and complexity of the property. Typically, it can take a few hours for smaller HMOs, while larger properties or those with multiple water systems may take a full day. After the assessment, the report is usually available within a few days, detailing the findings and necessary actions.