Water Testing

The bacterium Legionella pneumophila and related bacteria are common in natural water sources such as rivers, lakes and reservoirs, but usually in low numbers. They may also be found in purpose-built water systems such as cooling towers, evaporative condensers, hot and cold water systems and spa pools. If conditions are favourable, the bacteria may grow increasing the risks of Legionnaires’ disease and it is therefore important to control the risks by introducing appropriate measures outlined in Legionnaires' disease - The Control of Legionella bacteria in water systems (L8).

Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia and everyone is susceptible to infection. The risk increases with age, but some people are at higher risk including: 

» People over 45 years of age.

» Smokers and heavy drinkers.

» People suffering from chronic respiratory or kidney disease. 

»  People with diabetes, lung and heart disease. 

»  Anyone with an impaired immune system. 

We have very few properties that have a Legionella risk.  The regulations have been relaxed however we continue to carry out Legionella Risk Assessments every two years as best practice, alongside biannual chlorination and temperature checks. 

Our Responsibilities  

» We will comply with all of the legal responsibilities in relation to water hygiene and the management of the risk of legionella.  We are responsible for water systems, tanks etc. located within the residential buildings managed by us along with associated equipment such as booster pumps, thermostatically mixer valves etc. 

» We will work with residents to address issues.  

» We will ensure that anyone working for us or on our behalf to carry out works related to water systems of associated equipment will always have suitable qualification/competency, and only carry out work on equipment for which they are competent. 

» We will produce a risk assessment of the risk from legionella bacteria when there could be a risk.  

Your Responsibilities

» You must not interfere/alter/carry out work to with any water system or associated equipment belonging to SBHA. 

» You must not interfere/alter/carry out or have carried out any work to the water meter except by an authorised water supply company. 

» You must inform SBHA immediately of any faults

Responsibilities – Tenant Specific 

In addition to the above overarching responsibilities, tenants must ensure they: 

» Allow reasonable access to their property for the maintenance, testing and inspection of water systems and associated equipment.

» Report any faults, issues or failures.

Please email customer.service@sbhg.co.uk if you need to discuss/ report any issues.

About Shepherds Bush Housing Group

About Shepherds Bush Housing Association

Part of The Guinness Partnership, we have more than 5000 homes, throughout nine boroughs in west London

Find out more About Us