Green Water Services shares the dangers of neglected water tanks, from Legionella risks to declining water quality and legal liability. Learn how regular cleaning keeps your water safe and compliant.
At Green Water Services, we recently visited a commercial building in the East Midlands and discovered a worrying example of what can happen when water tanks are left unchecked. In the building’s loft space, tanks that were supposed to supply clean drinking water had been completely forgotten. What we found inside was a serious concern for the health of anyone using that water supply.
Contaminated and Unsafe
The interior of the tanks told the whole story. Over time, layers of rust, sediment, and bacterial growth had built up, contaminating the water inside. What should have been a source of clean, safe water had become a potential health hazard. Stagnant water provides the perfect environment for harmful microorganisms to grow, especially when it sits in dark and warm areas, such as loft spaces.
Unfortunately, many building managers and property owners are unaware of the condition of their tanks until it is too late. Out of sight often means out of mind. When water tanks are not cleaned and maintained regularly, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria that pose a real risk to public health.
The Risk of Legionella
One of the most serious dangers associated with neglected water tanks is the growth of Legionella bacteria. This bacteria thrives in warm. Still water and can become airborne through taps, showers, or other water systems. If inhaled, it can lead to Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially fatal form of pneumonia.
This is not a rare or unlikely scenario. The conditions we found in the neglected tanks were ideal for the development of Legionella. Without regular cleaning, temperature control, and water movement, even a standard cold-water tank can become a health risk.
Declining Water Quality
Beyond the health hazards, there are other issues to consider. Rust and sediment can leach into the water supply, making it look cloudy or discoloured. The water may develop an unpleasant taste or smell, and it might no longer meet the required standards for safe consumption.
Poor water quality reflects poorly on any business or property. Whether the building is residential, commercial, or industrial, tenants and employees expect clean water as a basic standard. Water that is visibly dirty or has an unpleasant odour can quickly lead to complaints and dissatisfaction.
Legal and Financial Implications
There are also legal responsibilities that building owners and managers must consider. The UK has clear legislation regarding water hygiene and safety. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines, legal action, and damage to reputation.
Health and safety legislation places a duty of care on those responsible for managing buildings. If water systems are found to be a contributing factor in a case of Legionnaires’ disease or another waterborne illness, the consequences can be severe, both financially and legally.
Taking Preventative Action
The good news is that all of this is preventable. Regular inspections, cleaning, and disinfection are key to ensuring water tanks remain safe and compliant. At Green Water Services, we provide a full range of water tank cleaning services to businesses and organisations throughout the East Midlands.
Our trained technicians conduct professional assessments and thorough cleans of cold-water storage tanks, ensuring that all biofilm, sediment, and other contaminants are removed. We also offer support with Legionella risk assessments and ongoing monitoring, giving you peace of mind that your water systems are being adequately managed.
Don’t Wait for a Problem to Arise
If you are unsure when your water tanks were last inspected or cleaned, it is time to take action. Even if there are no apparent signs of contamination, hidden risks could be building up unnoticed. Prevention is far easier and more cost-effective than dealing with an outbreak or legal issue later on.
Contact Green Water Services today to arrange a tank inspection or learn more about our water hygiene solutions. Let’s make your water safe again.
