How to keep the water system safe in your council home
Water safety is about making sure the water in your home is:
- clean
- safe to use
- free from harmful bacteria, such as Legionella
Bacteria can sometimes grow in water systems that are not used regularly, or where water stays still for long periods of time.
Most homes, especially those with modern combi‑boilers, are low risk. However, it's still important to follow simple steps to keep your water system safe.
Potential hazards
Although the risk is low in most homes, bacteria can grow in:
- pipes that are rarely used
- taps, showers, or outlets that have not been used for a long time
- water tanks in older properties
If these areas are not used very often, water can stop moving and bacteria can grow.
Risks to you
The risk from your water system is generally low, but in certain circumstances, harmful bacteria such as Legionella can grow. If you inhale tiny water droplets, such as from a shower, these bacteria can cause illnesses.
We make sure water systems in council homes are:
- managed to prevent risks from developing
- inspected when properties are empty
- repaired if any issues are found
Where water related issues might occur in your home
You might notice issues in areas such as:
- taps or showers that haven't been used for a while
- cold or hot water that takes a long time to run clear or reach temperature
- older properties with water tanks
- external taps that are rarely used
If you're unsure, always contact us rather than trying to inspect the system yourself.
Your responsibilities and safety measures
It's important that you:
- run taps and showers for a few minutes if they have not been used for a while, for example if you have been away
- report any unusual smells, discolouration, or low pressure in your water
- tell us if your home has been empty for a long time
- allow us access for inspections or maintenance when needed
You must not:
- attempt to repair or adjust water tanks, pipework or boilers
- remove or alter water fittings
- ignore signs of leaks, stagnation, or unusual water quality
Our responsibilities
We have a duty to:
- manage communal water systems in blocks and shared buildings
- carry out regular checks on water systems we are responsible for
- flush, clean or disinfect systems when needed
- make sure the water systems in empty properties are flushed and safe before new tenants move in
If more work is needed, it will be carried out by trained staff or specialist contractors.
Water Safety and Legionella Management Policy
The pdf Water Safety and Legionella Policy(278 KB) sets out how we meet our legal and regulatory duties as a landlord for maintaining safe and compliant water systems.