Question 1

Water Tank Worry

Accepted Answer

Q: A year ago last September we had installed a new water tank for our building. Does this need legionella testing? Could you advise if this is a legal requirement please? Our last tank lasted over 12 years and I cannot ever recall it being tested. FPRA Director Shula Rich replies: There are now new legal requirements on freeholders for legionella testing for the supply of stored water to the common parts. The first thing is to have a risk assessment. This must be done with reference only to the supply and storage of water for delivery in the common parts. You do not need to test in flats, as you are not responsible for repairs to water outlets in flats (unless your lease is very unusual). The legislation is confusing as it refers to 'landlords' which is does not distinguish from freeholders or ground landlords. Under any legislation the cleaning of a storage tank would be required and an initial bacteriological test recommended. This is a minefield of sensible precautions and some rip-off firms out to charge unreasonable fees - please come back to us if any work is recommended as a result of cleaning and testing. [submitted April 2016]

Question 2

Water Tank Worry

Accepted Answer

Q: A year ago last September we had installed a new water tank for our building. Does this need legionella testing? Could you advise if this is a legal requirement please? Our last tank lasted over 12 years and I cannot ever recall it being tested. FPRA Director Shula Rich replies: There are now new legal requirements on freeholders for legionella testing for the supply of stored water to the common parts. The first thing is to have a risk assessment. This must be done with reference only to the supply and storage of water for delivery in the common parts. You do not need to test in flats, as you are not responsible for repairs to water outlets in flats (unless your lease is very unusual). The legislation is confusing as it refers to 'landlords' which is does not distinguish from freeholders or ground landlords. Under any legislation the cleaning of a storage tank would be required and an initial bacteriological test recommended. This is a minefield of sensible precautions and some rip-off firms out to charge unreasonable fees - please come back to us if any work is recommended as a result of cleaning and testing. [submitted April 2016]

Water Tank Worry

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