Legionella risk assessment rules for landlords 2026
Landlords have a duty under health and safety law to assess and control the risk of exposure to legionella bacteria in the water system. For most typical domestic rentals this is a simple assessment rather than a formal certificate, and HSE guidance suggests reviewing it periodically and when circumstances change (commonly treated as roughly every two years or at change of tenancy). This is guidance-based rather than a fixed statutory deadline, so CertSafe labels it 'recommended'. Keep a record of your assessment.
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Landlords have a duty under health and safety law to assess and control the risk of exposure to legionella bacteria in the water system. For most typical domestic rentals this is a simple assessment rather than a formal certificate, and HSE guidance suggests reviewing it periodically and when circumstances change (commonly treated as roughly every two years or at change of tenancy). This is guidance-based rather than a fixed statutory deadline, so CertSafe labels it 'recommended'. Keep a record of your assessment.
This is a legal obligation for private landlords in England. Keeping dated records is the simplest way to prove you have met it if a tenant, council or lender ever asks.
How often / when
Every 2 years.
CertSafe works out the exact next-due date for your property automatically once you enter when it was last done, and reminds you at 60, 30, 14, 7 and 1 days before — plus if anything slips overdue.
The penalty for getting it wrong
Duty of care under health & safety law; prosecution possible if harm results.
Penalties are set by legislation and enforced by local authorities or the courts. They can also complicate possession, mortgage and insurance matters, which is why lenders increasingly ask to see a compliance record.
Your quick checklist
1. Find the date this was last done (or arrange it now if it hasn't been).
2. Keep the certificate or record somewhere safe and give any required copy to your tenant.
3. Diarise the next deadline — or let CertSafe track it and remind you.
Frequently asked questions
How often is legionella risk assessment required?
Every 2 years.
What's the penalty for not doing legionella risk assessment?
Duty of care under health & safety law; prosecution possible if harm results.
Does this apply to my property in England?
These rules apply to privately rented homes in England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own regimes. Always check your specific circumstances against the official source linked below.
Official source: HSE — Legionella and landlords' responsibilities (HSG274)
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