Tenants often rely on landlords to keep hot water systems safe and to manage the risk of Legionella in England. This guide explains, in plain language, what landlords are expected to do about hot water temperature control, routine checks, maintenance and prompt repairs, and what steps a tenant should take if they notice low hot water temperatures, discoloured water, or evidence of poor system upkeep. You will find practical advice on reporting problems, documenting evidence, accessing official guidance and the routes for formal complaint or tribunal action if needed. The focus is on practical, tenant-focused steps you can take to keep your home safe and to push for timely repairs.
Landlord responsibilities for hot water and legionella
Landlords must ensure hot water systems are safe and properly maintained. This includes managing Legionella risk by following recognised guidance (HSE guidance)[1] and ensuring repairs are carried out promptly under the tenancy rules[2][3].
- Keep hot water storage and circulation systems well maintained and serviced regularly.
- Ensure hot water is stored and delivered at temperatures that reduce Legionella growth.
- Carry out risk assessments where appropriate and follow written control measures.
- Respond promptly to repair requests that affect water safety or supply.
What tenants should do first
If you suspect hot water or Legionella problems, follow these practical steps to protect yourself and build a record.
- Record the problem with date, time and photos or videos as evidence.
- Contact your landlord or letting agent in writing and request repairs, keeping a copy.
- Allow reasonable access for inspections or engineers where required, and ask for identification on arrival.
- Ask for an estimated timescale for repair and agree any temporary safety measures.
- Stop using a water supply you reasonably believe is unsafe and seek medical advice if needed.
Official forms and legal routes
There is no single national "tenant repair" form, but there are official routes you can use. For workplace or duty-holder incidents you can use the RIDDOR reporting guidance and online reporting on GOV.UK (Report a work-related incident)[4]. For housing complaints that affect safety, contact your local council's environmental health team and keep written records. If the landlord does not act, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a remedy, including orders for repairs or rent reduction; the Tribunal handles residential tenancy disputes in England[5].
FAQ
- Can my landlord be held responsible for Legionella risk?
- Yes. Landlords who control hot water systems have a responsibility to manage Legionella risk and to carry out reasonable maintenance and checks.
- What proof should I keep when reporting a problem?
- Keep dated photos or videos, copies of messages to your landlord, notes of phone calls and any engineer reports or invoices.
- How long should I wait for a repair?
- Reasonable timescales vary by severity. For immediate safety risks, ask the landlord to act urgently and contact the council if they do not. For non-urgent repairs, request a clear timescale in writing.
How-To
- Within 24 hours, document the problem with photos, times and symptoms where relevant.
- Contact your landlord or agent in writing, describe the issue and request an inspection or repair.
- Keep records of all replies, visits and any temporary measures provided by the landlord.
- If the landlord does not act, submit a formal complaint to your local council's environmental health team.
- If you still have no remedy, prepare evidence and apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a decision.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must maintain hot water systems and manage Legionella risks.
- Document issues thoroughly and always contact the landlord in writing first.
- Use local council environmental health and, if needed, the First-tier Tribunal for formal remedies.
Help and Support / Resources
- HSE: Legionnaires' disease guidance
- GOV.UK: Find your local council
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
- NHS: Legionnaires' disease
