LANDLORDS in Pembrokeshire could face heavy fines – and jail time in worst-case scenarios – if they fail to address the risks of Legionnaires’ disease in rental properties.

Fines of up to £20,000, or a custodial sentence if a tenant dies after contracting the disease, are now enforceable under the new Renters’ Rights Act which came into effect on Friday, May 1.

It comes after latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency found 472 cases of legionellosis were identified in 2024, 13 of which proved to be fatal.

The disease is a severe form of pneumonia and is most likely to affect older adults, particularly smokers and those with weakened immune systems or chronic diseases such as cancer or diabetes.

It is spread in temperatures between 20 to 45 degrees Celsius by contaminating water systems and being inhaled through water droplets which are discharged from showerheads, hot tubs and humidifiers.

Amid increased risks of hefty fines, home assessors have developed a new e-learning platform – Legionella Guard – for landlords to ensure properties in their name adhere to updated regulations.

Leah Stone, Director of Legionella Guard, said managing the risk of Legionnaires’ disease should be treated equally seriously as reducing the risk of more obvious home hazards such as gas and fire safety.

“Legionnaires’ disease is a deadly risk hiding in plain sight,” said Leah.

“It’s overlooked by homeowners, a frightening number of which are completely unaware of the disease and the very real risk it poses to those who are vulnerable.

“It is now a legal duty for landlords to manage the risk of infection.

“Historically, guidance has been vague, confusing and often ignored. And professional inspections are expensive.

“This tool protects landlords from unintentional noncompliance which could have devastating consequences.”

Failure for landlords to assess and control the risk of Legionnaires’ disease is now a criminal breach.

Legionella Guard works by making it simple for landlords to develop a basic understanding of Legionella, how it grows and what it needs to thrive. Evidence of action being taken to prevent bacteria growth can also be stored securely to avoid conviction.

Leah said all landlords should be completing an annual risk assessment.

She added: “It’s to primarily protect your tenants, but also yourself.

“Once landlords complete our straightforward e-learning programme, they can ask risk independently without having to pay large fees to third parties.

“It’s a simple solution the sector has been crying out for, and is available to letting agents, local authorities, housing associations and private landlords.”

Primary symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include chest pain, a cough, high temperature and shortness of breath. Further information about Legionella Guard is available online via www.legionella-guard.co.uk.