Practical precautions for Legionnaires'

This can cause Legionnaires’ Disease which is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by inhalation of small droplets of contaminated water containing Legionella bacteria.

Legionella bacteria can grow in water systems if water is allowed to stagnate or is stored at unsuitable temperatures. Inhaling small droplets of contaminated water can cause Legionnaires' Disease, a potentially serious form of pneumonia.

To help reduce the risk:

• Do not interfere with the settings on your boiler or hot water system. Hot water should be heated to around 60°C.
• If any taps, showers or other water outlets are not used regularly, run both the hot and cold water for at least two minutes each week. Avoid creating sprays or aerosols where possible.
• If a shower is only used occasionally, run it for at least two minutes once every week. Keep out of the way whilst this is being done where possible.
• Clean, descale and disinfect shower heads and hoses at least every three months.
• If a property, room or water outlet is likely to remain unused for an extended period, flush the hot and cold water systems regularly during the period of non-use where possible.
• Before reoccupying a property after a period of vacancy, run all hot and cold water outlets for at least two minutes before normal use resumes.
• Allow access for any inspections, servicing or maintenance arranged by the landlord or managing agent.

Please report any of the following as soon as possible:

• Cold water that remains unusually warm after running the tap.
• Hot water that does not become sufficiently hot.
• Water that is discoloured or contains debris.
• Problems with the boiler, hot water cylinder or water system.
• Damaged shower heads, hoses or plumbing fittings.
• Any other concerns regarding the water system.

The inspection, servicing, maintenance and repair of the water system itself remains the responsibility of the property owner and their contractors. However, tenants and residents also play an important role in helping to reduce risk by following these simple precautions and reporting any concerns promptly.