Accurate water sampling
At The First Principle, we provide professional on-site water sampling for Legionella and Total Viable Count (TVC), partnering with a UKAS-accredited laboratory to ensure precision and reliability. Our service is designed to help you monitor water safety, interpret lab results with confidence, and take informed action when needed.
Whether you’re managing a healthcare facility, commercial building, or industrial site, regular water testing is essential for health protection and legal compliance. We not only test — we guide you through the findings, offering clear recommendations and urgent alerts if elevated bacterial levels are detected.
Key features of our water sampling
- Legionella and TVC sampling
- UKAS-accredited lab analysis
- Clear interpretation of results
- Actionable recommendations
- Emergency reporting
- Regulatory compliance support
- Applicable across sectors
- Peace of mind
Potable water standards
We assess your water against UK and EU standards for microbiological, chemical, and aesthetic quality. Key parameters include:
Microbiological Safety
• Legionella – Must be below 100 cfu/l
• TVC – Under 100 cfu/ml at 22°C, 10 cfu/ml at 37°C
• Coliforms & E. coli – Absent in 100 ml
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa – Absent in 100 ml (especially in healthcare)
Chemical Indicators
• Chloride – Should be less than 250 mg/l
• Hydrocarbons – Should not be detectable
Aesthetic Quality
• Clarity & Appearance – Water should be clear, colourless, and free of unpleasant taste or odour
Standards
• All results are benchmarked against EC Directive 80/778 and current UK potable water guidelines
Action levels following Legionella sampling in hot and cold water systems
| Legionella bacteria (cfu/l) | Recommended actions |
|---|---|
| > 100 and up to 1,000 |
|
| > 1,000 |
|
Get your water testing in 3 simple steps
Step 1 - Request a quote
Get in touch to tell us about your property and testing needs. We’ll provide a clear, no-obligation quote based on your requirements.
Step 2 - Sampling & UKAS testing
Our team will visit your site to collect water samples, which are then analysed by an independent UKAS-accredited laboratory for accuracy and compliance.
Step 3 - Get your results
You’ll receive a clear report with the lab results, expert interpretation, and practical recommendations — including urgent alerts if action is needed.
Why choose us for your water testing?
When it comes to water safety, accuracy and speed matter. We combine trusted laboratory testing with expert guidance to give you clear, confident decisions — not just data.
Accredited
We use independent UKAS-accredited laboratories to ensure your results are reliable, recognised, and fully compliant.
Expert-led
Our experienced team interprets results for you, providing clear advice and actionable next steps — not just technical reports.
Responsive
In the event of elevated results, we act fast with emergency reporting and clear remedial guidance to help you take immediate control.
Regulatory-ready
Our service supports full compliance with ACoP L8, HTM 04-01, and other relevant water safety standards.
Established company
When to contact The First Principle
- You’ve never had your water system tested
- You’re managing a high-risk environment
- You’ve had changes to your water system
- Your Legionella risk assessment recommends it
- You need to prove compliance
- You’ve received a poor result in past testing
- You’re unsure how to read your last test report
- You want to avoid liability and protect your reputation
Protect your water — and your people
Book professional water testing today with The First Principle.
From accurate UKAS-accredited sampling to expert interpretation and support, we help you stay compliant, safe, and in control.
Get in touch for a free quote.
Your questions answered
Common questions
What types of water testing do you offer?
We provide sampling for Legionella and Total Viable Count (TVC) in hot and cold water systems, using a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis.
Is water testing a legal requirement?
Yes, especially in settings like healthcare, commercial properties, or where a Legionella risk assessment recommends regular monitoring. It’s essential for compliance with ACoP L8 and HTM 04-01.
How often should water testing be carried out?
Frequency depends on your risk assessment, but quarterly or annual testing is common in higher-risk environments like dental clinics, care homes, or rented premises.
What is a TVC test?
TVC (Total Viable Count) measures the general bacterial load in your water supply. While not specific to Legionella, it gives a good indication of water quality.
What happens if Legionella is found?
We provide immediate reporting of elevated results and expert recommendations for remedial action, which may include flushing, temperature control, or disinfection.
Do I need to close my business if Legionella is detected?
Not necessarily — it depends on the levels and location. We’ll guide you through the necessary steps to remain compliant while managing any risk.
Do you test drinking water?
Yes, we test TVC in drinking water as part of routine hygiene checks, ensuring water is safe for consumption and free from contamination.
