Legionella flushing and water temperature log
A printable log for two routine legionella control tasks: flushing outlets that are rarely used, and checking that hot water runs hot and cold water runs cold.
List the outlets your legionella risk assessment asks you to flush or check, then record each visit. Your risk assessment sets which outlets and how often — this sheet just keeps the record.
Free to use and print. No sign-up needed.
HSE guidance on hot and cold water systems
- For infrequently used outlets, HSE says to set up a programme of regular flushing (weekly), flushing through to drain without releasing aerosols.
- Hot water should be stored at 60°C or above, and HSE says the water at outlets should reach at least 50°C within 1 minute of running.
- Cold water at sentinel outlets should be below 20°C after running for 2 minutes. HSE says to check sentinel outlet temperatures monthly and record the findings.
- For rented homes, HSE says the risk in most residential settings is generally considered low, the duty to assess it does not require an in-depth, detailed assessment, and testing (sampling) for legionella is not usually required for domestic systems.
General guidance from the official sources below, not legal advice.
Legionella flushing and water temperature log
checktasks.app/templates/legionella-flushing-log- Building / site:
- Water system / area:
- Checked by:
- Thermometer used:
- Month / year:
| Date | Outlet / location | Flushed? (Y/N) | Hot °C (after 1 min) | Cold °C (after 2 min) | In range? (Y/N) | Action taken | Initials |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
If a check fails
- Run the outlet again and re-measure to confirm the reading.
- If thermostatic mixing valves are fitted, check the temperature of the hot supply going into the valve.
- Report the result to whoever is responsible for the water system and follow the actions in your legionella risk assessment — for example adjusting the water heater setting or calling your water hygiene contractor.
- Record the reading, what you did and the re-check in the log.
Stop chasing paper sheets
Put a QR or NFC tag by each outlet and record the flush and the temperatures on the spot. Water temperature readings with limits and out-of-range alerts are included on every plan and switched on for you on request.
Appliance & temperature checksFrequently asked questions
How often should little-used outlets be flushed?
HSE guidance says to set up a programme of regular flushing (weekly) for infrequently used outlets. For homes left empty, HSE says that as a general principle outlets should be used at least once a week to keep water moving.
What water temperatures should I be checking for?
HSE guidance says hot water should be stored at 60°C or above and reach at least 50°C within 1 minute at the outlet, and cold water should be below 20°C after running for 2 minutes.
Do landlords need a legionella test certificate?
No. HSE says health and safety law does not require landlords to obtain or produce a legionella test certificate. Landlords do need to assess and control the risk, and HSE notes that temperature monitoring is a reliable way to confirm a water system is under control.
Who can carry out a legionella risk assessment for a rental property?
HSE says most landlords can assess the risk themselves and do not need to be professionally trained or accredited, but they can ask someone else to do it if they do not feel competent.