Why it matters
The risk of Legionella occurs in unoccupied properties. In a typically used home, this is unlikely to happen and we do not undertake testing or checks unless a risk is identified.
About Legionnaires’ disease
Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia. It is caused by inhaling small droplets of water which have been contaminated by legionella bacteria. Legionnaires’ disease most commonly affects the elderly, or people with chest and lung problems. Not everyone exposed to legionella becomes ill.
Where Legionella is found
Legionella bacteria is normally found in streams, rivers and lakes. However, they can also enter a home’s water system when conditions are right.
Legionella bacteria is most likely to grow where water is stored between 20-45 degrees celsius, and where there is sludge, rust or limescale present for the bacteria to feed upon and multiply.
What we do
Where we have communal stored or shared water systems, we undertake water risk assessments and review every 2 years.
Following the water risk assessment, we develop a scheme of controls which ensure that all water systems stay safe. This includes checking all communal cold-water tanks on an annual basis.
What you need to do to keep your home safe
Keep all shower heads and taps clean and free from limescale build up, mould or algae growth.
Ensure your boiler is set to heat water to 60 degrees celsius.
Flush through showers and taps for 2 minutes before their first use after a period of non-use (for example, after you have been on holiday, or if a room has not been used for a week or more).
What to look out for
Please contact Repairs on 0300 330 7003 if you notice:
- the cold water is still running warm after you have initially run off any water which may have accumulated in the pipes – it should not be over 20 degrees celsius
- there is any debris or discolouration in the water
- the boiler is not working properly, particularly if the water is not coming out of the taps at a sufficiently high temperature – it should come out of the tap at a temperature of 50 degrees celsius after it has run for a minute at the longest
If you have a water tank, please let us know if the lid is missing or damaged.
Safety in the home
