Water Sampling and Testing

Legionella samples are not routinely needed for every domestic hot and cold water system. HSE's landlord guidance explains that testing is only needed in specific circumstances. Establish the relevant system and purpose rather than booking an annual sample simply because the property is rented.

The instruction identifies the reason for sampling, outlets or system points, collection method and analysis required. It can include reviewing existing information, arranging collection, laboratory testing and a clear account of results and recommended next steps.

The report should allow the owner or manager to identify exactly where each sample came from. Any investigation, repairs or repeat testing must have an agreed scope. Keep those costs and decisions separate from the initial collection so the customer understands what has been purchased.

A laboratory result relates to the sample submitted and the test performed. It does not describe every part of a building or guarantee future water quality. Use it with the system information and the question being investigated.

Collection conditions can change the meaning of results. Samples taken before or after flushing may examine different conditions. The sampling plan should explain the intended method, and occupants should follow the agreed preparation instructions rather than cleaning or running an outlet on their own initiative before collection.

Send the address, property use, reason for concern and any previous results or risk assessment. Identify the water supply and whether tanks, shared plant or separate occupier systems are involved. Explain recent works, periods of low use and the locations affected.

Confirm who provides entry and who can authorise action if a result needs attention. For managed properties, agree who receives the laboratory report and communicates with occupants. Access to the specific sampling point matters; a convenient alternative tap may not answer the same question.

We clarify the property and purpose, establish the sampling and laboratory arrangements and agree the collection visit. Samples are identified by location and the relevant collection details are retained with the results.

The findings are handed to the responsible customer with the next action clearly stated. Where further assessment is needed, the instruction identifies why and which part of the system it concerns. HSE's testing guidance sets out the laboratory requirements for legionella analysis; those are part of the specified testing arrangement.

The number of samples, test panel, access and laboratory processing affect price and timing. Collecting one specified sample differs from investigating a property with several possible sources or incomplete records. Agree whether interpretation and follow-up advice are included.

Plan the appointment with occupants and allow for the laboratory's processing period. Results are not necessarily available during the collection visit. If temporary precautions or an urgent decision are required, establish the responsible contact and action route in advance rather than relying on an ordinary email being read later.

Managing agents need samples and reports linked to the correct property and owner. Hospitality premises need water use and operating periods explained. Residential block management needs shared and individual systems distinguished.

These examples sit within the full sector range. Our service and project offering supports the sectors we serve, with the testing scope matched to the installation and question concerned.

We cover Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, County Durham and Tees Valley, including Berwick-upon-Tweed, Alnwick, Morpeth, Hexham, Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, Sunderland, Durham, Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-Tees and Redcar and Cleveland. View all locations.

Provide the full address and access contact. For several properties, identify each sample location separately and establish who receives results for each instruction.

Yes. Explain the concern, water system and available records. The first step is to define the question and appropriate analysis rather than choose a test without context.

No. HSE does not set that blanket requirement for domestic hot and cold water systems. The assessment and circumstances determine whether sampling is needed.

No. Maintain the identified controls and review the system when circumstances change. A result at one point in time does not keep the installation in good condition.

Agree the recipients and responsibilities before collection. The report should reach the party making equipment decisions and the person controlling relevant water use, with clear arrangements for follow-up.

Read What Is a Legionella Risk Assessment? and the Water Hygiene Checklist. Explore the Knowledge Centre.

See Plumbing and Water, Water Hygiene and Legionella, Hot and Cold Water Systems, Asset Maintenance and Compliance Remedial Works. Browse all services, maintenance, projects, sectors and locations.

Contact Black & White Property Services with the address, concern, available records and access contact. We establish the sampling purpose, practical arrangements and result handover.