Not sure how many samples you need or how often you should be testing? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions we get asked.
The answer depends on your system, your risk assessment, and the type of property you manage — but there are clear guidelines that can help you make the right decision.
A question we are asked regularly is:
“How many samples do I actually need, and how often should I be testing?”
The answer is not fixed, as sampling requirements are based on your risk assessment, system design, and the type of property you manage.
However, there are clear guidelines and typical industry practices that can help.
The number of samples required will vary depending on your system, but in general:
• 1 sample → Small property or basic check
• 2 samples → Typical landlord property (most common)
• 4+ samples → Larger buildings or more complex systems
Most properties only require 2 samples as a practical starting point.
Sampling frequency should always align with your risk assessment, but typical guidance is:
• Low risk → Around annually
• Medium risk → Around every 6 months
• Higher risk → Quarterly or more frequently
Higher-risk environments include care homes, healthcare settings, and systems with known issues.
Yes — as long as samples are taken correctly and sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory.
Many landlords and businesses now carry out their own sampling to reduce costs and avoid engineer visits.
With the right kit, the process is simple:
• Pre-labelled sample bottles
• Clear instructions included
• Fast turnaround from a UKAS-accredited lab
• Full report provided with your results
If you already know what you need, you can order online and complete the process in minutes — no engineer visit required.
✔ Fast turnaround from a UKAS-accredited laboratory
✔ Simple instructions included
✔ Full report provided with your results