It’s important to make sure your water is fresh and free from harmful bacteria.
Bacteria can develop in pipes that aren’t regularly flushed with water –
particularly in dead-ends like showers and outside taps.
There are a few steps you can take:
- If you have a shower that isn’t used regularly, run it once a week to prevent water stagnating in the pipes
- Clean your shower head every six months to prevent the build-up of bacteria. Cleaning also removes limescale, where bacteria can breed
- If you have an outdoor tap, run it once a week to prevent the water from stagnating in the pipes.
What is ‘Legionnaire’s Disease’?
Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection you can catch by inhaling droplets
of water that is contaminated by the legionella bacteria. It’s uncommon but
can be serious so it is important to be aware.
Where can it be found?
It is common in natural water sources such as ponds and lakes. It may
contaminate and grow in water systems such as hot and cold water
systems.
What can you do to reduce the risk?
The best way to avoid legionella is by maintaining good water hygiene in your
home, such as:
- Run any water outlets for around 2 minutes and flush the toilet cistern if you
have been out of the property for a number of days. - Clean your shower head regularly to prevent a build up of bacteria
- Keep water temperatures above 60 degrees at all times
- Make sure you use water collected in water butts or drain regularly
How do Unity manage Legionella risk?
1. We carry out regular risk assessment to any properties with a communal or shared water supply.
2. We routinely test water temperatures and flush little used outlets at sites with a communal or
shared water supply to ensure they are within tolerance.
3. Before you move into once of our properties we ensure any shower heads are cleaned and water
supplies are discharged so that you can be confident that you’re safe in your home.
If you have any concerns regarding water safety in your home, please contact us on 0113 200 7700
and ask to speak to a member of the Compliance Team or Get in Touch using the link below,