Why Bradford Businesses and Landlords Must Take Legionella Control Seriously in 2025

Bradford has one of the most varied building landscapes in West Yorkshire, from historic mills and stone terraces to modern offices and large industrial units. This mix adds character across the district but also creates ideal conditions for Legionella bacteria to thrive if water systems are not properly managed.

Many property owners are unaware that their water systems may already present hidden risks. Low-use outlets, old pipework, poorly insulated tanks and long periods of vacancy all contribute to the perfect environment for Legionella growth. In a city as diverse as Bradford, where building age, usage and temperatures vary widely, the importance of effective Legionella control is even greater.

Here is why landlords, facilities managers and business owners in Bradford should prioritise Legionella compliance in 2025.

1. Bradford’s Building Stock Increases Legionella Risk

Across BD1 to BD9, many buildings were not designed with modern water safety practices in mind. Older pipework, unrecorded modifications and decades of repurposing create conditions where water can stagnate or fall into the Legionella growth range of 20–45°C. Dead-legs, redundant pipework and poorly maintained outlets can remain unnoticed for years.

This issue also affects surrounding areas including Shipley, Bingley, Haworth, Queensbury and Keighley, where properties have often been extended or partially refurbished. These factors make regular Legionella risk assessments essential for compliance and safety.

2. Vacant and Partially Occupied Properties Are Common

Regeneration in Bradford has brought change across the district, but it has also resulted in a high number of empty or low-use properties, including retail units, HMOs, flats above shops and industrial units. Buildings that are not used daily are far more likely to experience water stagnation, one of the primary causes of Legionella growth.

Implementing routine flushing schedules, temperature monitoring and clear control measures significantly reduces these risks.

3. Landlords Have Clear Legal Responsibilities for Legionella Control

Both domestic and commercial landlords must comply with ACoP L8 and HSG 274. This includes identifying Legionella risks, putting suitable controls in place, maintaining ongoing monitoring and keeping accurate records.

Failure to meet these obligations can result in enforcement action. With Bradford’s high volume of rental properties — especially in BD3, BD5, BD7 and BD8 — maintaining compliance is essential for protecting tenants and ensuring safe living conditions.

4. Schools, Care Settings and Community Buildings Need Enhanced Protection

Bradford has a large number of schools, nurseries, care homes, supported living sites, sports facilities and community buildings. These environments often have variable occupancy levels, meaning water systems may sit unused for extended periods. Combined with stored hot water and complex plumbing systems, these buildings are high-risk and require regular Legionella checks to remain safe.

5. A Professional Legionella Risk Assessment Provides Certainty

A thorough Legionella risk assessment offers property owners:

• A complete overview of their water system

• Clear identification of risks such as dead-legs, low-use outlets, temperature issues, scale build-up and poorly maintained tanks or calorifiers

• Prioritised, easy-to-follow recommendations

• A tailored compliance plan

• Evidence for insurers, tenants and regulatory bodies

For Bradford landlords and businesses, this means fewer surprises, reduced risk of disease and a safer environment for all occupants.

Serving All Bradford Postcodes

Absolute Water Compliance provides Legionella services across the entire district, including:

BD1–BD9: Central Bradford, Eccleshill, Great Horton, Wibsey, Heaton, Manningham, Thornton Road, BarkerendBD10–BD19: Idle, Shipley, Baildon, Bingley, Clayton, Queensbury, Cottingley, CleckheatonBD20–BD22: Keighley, Silsden, Haworth, Oakworth, Oxenhope

We also cover nearby locations such as Pudsey, Halifax, Skipton, Ilkley and Leeds.

How Absolute Water Compliance Supports Bradford Properties

Our professional services include:

• Legionella risk assessments

• Monthly or quarterly temperature monitoring

• Flushing of low-use outlets

• Cleaning, disinfection and showerhead descaling

• CPD-certified Legionella training (on-site or virtual)

Every assessment is carried out by a City & Guilds qualified Legionella specialist.

Book Your Bradford Legionella Risk Assessment

Whether you manage a single rental property or multiple commercial sites, Absolute Water Compliance can help you stay safe, legal and fully compliant.

01226 491133

support@absolute-water.co.uk

Visit our Legionella risk assessment page via our website