Legionnaire's Disease and Real Estate: Essential Tips for Homebuyers
If you’re looking at a new house, you probably focus on price, location, and layout. But have you thought about the hidden health risk of Legionella bacteria? It’s the cause of Legionnaire’s disease, a serious lung infection that can spread through water systems in homes and buildings. Knowing what to look for can save you from nasty surprises after you move in.
Why Legionella Matters in Property Purchases
Legionella thrives in warm, stagnant water – think hot tubs, cooling towers, or even rarely used showers. New owners often overlook these spots, assuming they’re clean. In reality, a building’s plumbing design, temperature settings, and maintenance history play a big role in bacterial growth. If a previous owner didn’t keep the water systems running, the bacteria could already be present.
When you buy a home, you inherit its water system. That means you inherit any Legionella risk, too. The disease isn’t contagious between people, but inhaling aerosolized water droplets can trigger infection. Older properties, especially those with complex HVAC systems, are more likely to have hidden reservoirs.
Practical Steps to Spot and Prevent Legionella
First, ask the seller for any maintenance records related to water heaters, cooling towers, and plumbing repairs. A well‑documented history shows they take the system seriously. Next, schedule a professional inspection. Inspectors can test water temperature, check for dead‑leg pipes, and even run a Legionella test if needed.
During the walkthrough, pay attention to any signs of water stagnation: slow‑draining showers, musty odors, or rust-colored water. Turn on all taps, run the hot water for a few minutes, and note if the temperature reaches at least 140°F (60°C). Consistently hot water helps kill bacteria, but sudden temperature drops can give Legionella a chance to grow.
If you find a hot tub or a large cooling system, make sure it’s serviced regularly. Simple actions like flushing rarely used pipes, cleaning filters, and keeping water temperature above 131°F (55°C) greatly reduce risk. For owners, installing a point‑of‑use filter on showerheads can add an extra layer of protection.
Finally, after you move in, set a maintenance schedule. Run hot water on all taps weekly, clean aerators, and replace water heater anodes every few years. Small habits prevent the bacteria from taking hold and keep your home safe for years.
Legionnaire’s disease may sound like a rare concern, but it’s a real threat in many residential settings. By asking the right questions, getting a professional inspection, and keeping up with water system maintenance, you can protect yourself and your family while enjoying your new property.
Remember, a healthy home starts with clean water. Use these tips during your next house hunt and turn a potential risk into a non‑issue.
