Landlords are now responsible for carrying out tests and inspections on their properties to detect legionella hazards, the bacteria that causes legionnaires disease. It is also the landlords responsibility that things are in place to ensure their rented properties remain low risk against the legionella bacteria.
What is Legionnaires’ Disease?
Basically its a pneumonia like illness that is brought upon by the Legionella bacteria. An infection is caused by breathing in excess droplets of water that is contaminated by legionella, the bacteria that leads to legionnaires’. The disease isn’t contagious but can be fatal.
Where do you find Legionella?
Legionella bacteria can contaminate or grow in any water system, infection in humans is generally through contaminated water systems where the bacteria thrives. The bacteria can survive at low temperatures and thrive at warm temperatures, in fact it takes temperatures of 65°C or above to kill off the bacteria. Due to its ability to thrive at low and warm temperatures humans are always at a slight risk.
Do I need an inspection?
If you’re renting out a property or premises then its highly advisable that you do, many letting agents are now requesting inspections before they let out properties. It is the landlords responsibility to test for legionnaire. If you have a commercial premises then we recommend this is tested as again you’re responsible for any potential infections. It’s down to your discretion as a homeowner but for general safety we advise to have a inspection to rule our any chance of an infection.
We offer a full risk assessment on all your water system to detect any potential signs of the legionella bacteria. To arrange a legionnaire inspection in Kent please call us on 01634 361855.
Legionnaire Inspections For Landlords & All Private Properties & Premises
