Frequently Asked Questions for Landlords
Common questions about legionella risk assessments, landlord responsibilities, and compliance in the UK.
This page answers the most frequently asked questions from landlords regarding legionella risk assessments, legal duties, costs, and practical compliance.
For Landlords
Do landlords legally need a legionella risk assessment?
Yes. UK landlords are required to assess and manage the risk of legionella in their rental properties under health and safety legislation and HSE guidance.
The level of assessment required depends on the property and its water systems, but landlords are expected to have evidence that the risk has been assessed, even where risk is considered low.
Is a written legionella risk assessment required?
In most cases, yes.
A written assessment provides:
- Evidence of compliance
- A record of identified risks
- Guidance on control measures
- Support in the event of inspection or complaint
For anything other than the simplest low-risk properties, a written record is strongly recommended.
Do all rental properties need a legionella risk assessment?
Most rental properties require some form of assessment, including:
- Single residential lets
- HMOs
- Flats and apartment buildings
- Short-term and holiday lets
The scope of the assessment varies depending on factors such as water system complexity, property usage, and occupancy.
How often should landlords review a legionella risk assessment?
There is no fixed legal expiry date, but assessments should be reviewed regularly and when circumstances change, such as:
- Change of tenants
- Alterations to water systems
- Periods of vacancy
- Evidence of temperature or usage issues
Many landlords review assessments every one to two years, depending on risk level
Can a landlord carry out their own legionella risk assessment?
In limited circumstances, landlords may carry out a basic assessment themselves if they are competent to do so.
Competence requires sufficient knowledge of:
- Legionella risks
- Water system types
- Control measures
Many landlords choose to use specialist providers to ensure the assessment is suitable, documented correctly, and defensible if challenged.
What happens if a landlord does not have a legionella risk assessment?
Failure to assess and manage legionella risk can result in:
- Enforcement action by local authorities or the HSE
- Improvement notices
- Difficulty defending claims if illness occurs
- Potential prosecution in serious cases
Having a suitable assessment helps demonstrate that reasonable steps have been taken
Does a letting agent cover legionella risk assessments?
Not automatically.
While some letting agents may assist with arranging assessments, legal responsibility ultimately remains with the landlord unless explicitly transferred through a written agreement.
Landlords should always confirm who is responsible and ensure documentation is in place.
Are legionella risk assessments expensive for landlords?
Costs vary depending on property type, location, and system complexity.
As a general guide:
- Simple residential assessments are typically lower cost
- HMOs and complex systems cost more
Landlords should be cautious of extremely low prices, which may indicate limited or generic assessments.
See Typical Costs & Pricing for Landlords for more detail.
What does a landlord receive after the assessment?
Typically, landlords receive:
- A written legionella risk assessment report
- Identification of any risks
- Recommended control measures
- Guidance on review frequency
Documentation should be retained as part of property safety records.
Is legionella risk higher in older properties?
Not necessarily.
Risk depends more on:
- Water system design
- Maintenance
- Temperature control
- Frequency of use
Both older and newer properties can present risks if systems are poorly managed.
What increases the risk of legionella in rental properties?
Common risk factors include:
- Stored water tanks
- Infrequently used outlets
- Poor temperature control
- Long periods of vacancy
- Complex pipework
A suitable risk assessment helps identify and manage these factors
How can landlords demonstrate compliance?
Landlords can demonstrate compliance by:
- Having a suitable risk assessment
- Keeping written records
- Implementing recommended control measures
- Reviewing assessments as needed
This documentation is important if compliance is questioned.
How does Legionella Risk Assessment UK help landlords?
Legionella Risk Assessment UK does not carry out assessments.
We help landlords by:
- Explaining responsibilities clearly
- Providing transparent information
- Connecting landlords with qualified assessment providers
- Supporting informed decision-making
Our platform remains independent, with no paid rankings or preferential listings.
Still Have Questions?
If you’re unsure whether your property requires a legionella risk assessment or need help finding a suitable provider, you can use our platform to connect with qualified professionals operating in your area.