Property Managers’ Guide to Legionella Compliance: What You Need to Know in 2025
As a property manager in the UK, ensuring Legionella compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about protecting people’s health and your business’s reputation. With regulations becoming increasingly stringent, staying compliant in 2025 requires a thorough understanding of your responsibilities and the right approach to water safety management.
Understanding Your Legal Obligations
As a property manager, you have specific duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. These include:
- Identifying and assessing sources of risk
- Preparing a scheme to prevent or control risk
- Implementing and managing precautions
- Keeping records of precautions
- Appointing a person to be managerially responsible
Key Areas of Focus for 2025
1. Risk Assessment Requirements
Your Legionella risk assessment must be:
Comprehensive and up-to-date
Conducted by a competent person
Reviewed regularly (at least every two years)
Updated when there are system changes
What’s New in 2025: Risk assessments now need to include detailed documentation of remote monitoring systems if used, and specific considerations for energy-saving modifications to water systems.
2. Temperature Control
Proper temperature management remains crucial:
Hot water storage: 60°C minimum
Hot water distribution: 50°C minimum (within one minute)
Cold water: Below 20°C (within two minutes)
Regular temperature monitoring and recording
3. Training Requirements
Ensure relevant staff have:
Basic Legionella awareness training
Specific role-related training
Regular refresher courses
Documented proof of training completion
Common Compliance Pitfalls to Avoid
1. Inadequate Record-Keeping
- Maintain detailed logs of all checks and maintenance
- Use digital systems for better tracking
- Keep records for a minimum of five years
2. Overlooking Less-Used Outlets
- Implement a weekly flushing regime for rarely used outlets
- Document all flushing activities
- Consider automatic flushing systems for problematic areas
3. Poor Communication Channels
- Establish clear reporting lines
- Regular updates between maintenance teams and management
- Proper handover procedures between staff changes
Best Practices for Compliance
Regular Monitoring
Implement a robust monitoring schedule:
- Weekly flushing of infrequently used outlets
- Monthly temperature checks of sentinel points
- Quarterly cleaning and inspection of water tanks
- Annual tank inspection and risk assessment review
Documentation Systems
Maintain comprehensive records of:
- Risk assessments and reviews
- Monitoring results
- Cleaning and maintenance activities
- Training records
- Incident reports and actions taken
Staff Training and Awareness
Ensure your team:
- Understands their responsibilities
- Knows how to identify risks
- Can perform required checks correctly
- Maintains proper documentation
Emergency Response Planning
Have a clear plan for:
- Positive Legionella test results
- System failures
- Outbreak situations
- Emergency contact procedures
Cost-Effective Compliance
Technology Integration
- Consider automated monitoring systems
- Use digital record-keeping solutions
- Implement remote monitoring where appropriate
Preventive Measures
- Regular maintenance is cheaper than emergency repairs
- Proper training prevents costly mistakes
- Early detection of issues saves money long-term
Getting Professional Support
While many aspects of Legionella control can be managed in-house, certain tasks require professional expertise:
- Risk assessments
- Complex system modifications
- Laboratory testing
- Specialised cleaning and disinfection
- Training provision
How Aqua Engineering Can Help
At Aqua Engineering, we offer comprehensive support for property managers:
UKAS-accredited testing services
Expert risk assessments
Online and in-person training
Regular maintenance programs
Emergency response services
Compliance documentation support
Take Action Now!
Don’t wait for problems to arise. Ensure your property’s Legionella compliance by:
- Reviewing your current risk assessment
- Updating your control schemes
- Checking staff training records
- Auditing your documentation system
- Consulting with experts for guidance
Contact Aqua Engineering today for a FREE, no-obligation consultation to discuss your Legionella compliance needs. Our experienced team can help you develop a tailored compliance strategy that protects both your residents and your business.
Call us now to speak with one of our friendly advisors and ensure your property’s water safety compliance for 2025 and beyond.
