Can landlords carry out their own Legionella risk assessment?

Yes, landlords can carry out their own assessment if they are confident and competent. However, for properties with tanks, elderly tenants, or unused outlets, it's often safer to use a qualified assessor.

What should a landlord's Legionella risk assessment include?

It should identify risks in the water system, check hot and cold temperatures, inspect tanks and outlets, and include a written record of findings and actions taken.

Is a Legionella certificate legally required for landlords?

No, there is no legal requirement for a certificate. The law requires a documented risk assessment, but not laboratory testing or certification unless risks are identified.

Legionella Risk Assessment for Landlords in Doncaster

Q: Do landlords need a Legionella risk assessment?

Yes. Under UK health and safety law, landlords must assess the risk of Legionella bacteria in their rental properties. This applies to both domestic and commercial lettings, even if the risk is considered low.

If you’re a landlord, you have a legal responsibility to keep your rental property safe from health hazards — including the risk of Legionnaires’ disease. A Legionella risk assessment is the practical way to show you’ve assessed the risk in your property’s water system and taken sensible steps to control it. ✓

For bookings and full service details, see our Legionella Risk Assessment service in Doncaster

Do Landlords Need a Legionella Risk Assessment?

Yes. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH), landlords are legally required to carry out a Legionella risk assessment — even in domestic, single-let properties ✅

This duty applies whether you’re renting out a flat, house, HMO, or a room in your own home.

You don’t necessarily need to hire a professional assessor for a straightforward domestic property, but you must be able to show that a suitable assessment has been completed and that any risks have been controlled.

Many landlords still prefer a qualified assessor — especially where there are multiple properties, vulnerable occupants, stored water, or any uncertainty.

Scope of this page

This guide is written for landlords and letting agents, with a focus on typical domestic rental properties. For commercial premises, care settings, or larger systems, see our main service page or contact us for advice.

What Does the Risk Assessment Involve?

A Legionella risk assessment for a domestic rental property is usually straightforward. It should include:

Identifying potential sources of Legionella (e.g. storage tanks, dead legs)
Checking water temperatures at outlets (hot should be ≥50°C, cold ≤20°C)
Inspecting for infrequently used taps or showers
Assessing whether there are vulnerable occupants (e.g. elderly, immune-compromised)
Recording findings and any actions taken (e.g. regular flushing)

You can carry out the assessment yourself using a checklist if you’re confident, but many landlords prefer to use a qualified professional — especially for peace of mind or when managing multiple properties ✅

When Should a Landlord Update the Risk Assessment?

You should review and update your Legionella risk assessment:

At the start of each new tenancy
If the water system is changed or upgraded
If the property becomes vacant for more than a week

There’s no legal requirement to conduct water sampling or obtain a “Legionella certificate” — but you must document the assessment and show evidence if asked by a tenant, letting agent, or local authority.

Download: Landlord Legionella Risk Assessment Checklist

Free landlord checklist (coming soon). If you’d like a professional assessment instead, contact us here.
(Or contact us for a professional visit)

When Should Landlords Use a Professional Assessor?

It’s strongly advised to get a professional Legionella risk assessment if your property has:

A cold water storage tank or hot water cylinder
More than one bathroom or unused water outlets
Elderly or high-risk tenants
Commercial or mixed-use plumbing systems
If you’re based in or around Doncaster, we can usually arrange a prompt visit and provide a clear, landlord-friendly report.

Hiring a qualified assessor ensures full compliance and removes any guesswork.

Hiring a qualified assessor removes guesswork and provides a clear written record you can keep on file.

What Happens If You Don’t Do It?

Failure to comply could lead to serious consequences if a tenant becomes ill. While enforcement is rare for domestic properties, a recorded risk assessment is your legal defence. It shows you’ve taken reasonable steps to meet your responsibilities as a landlord ✅

Summary: Key Points for Landlords

All landlords must assess the risk of Legionella in their properties
You can perform the check yourself using a simple checklist
Document your findings and take action where needed
Review the assessment at the start of each new tenancy
Professional help is available if you’re unsure

Need help or want peace of mind. Arrange a Legionella Risk Assessment in Doncaster with a qualified local assessor.