Cooling towers and evaporative condensers

You must also notify us if any device ceases to be used or if any changes are made. This is a requirement of the Notification of Cooling Towers and Evaporative Condensers Regulations 1992. 

Notification purpose

The prime purpose of the notification regime is to enable us to identify potential areas that could give rise to spread of infectious disease such as legionella. It also ensures preventative measures are taken to eliminate the risk of such infection arising to employees and the public.

Applicable fees

No fees are payable for any notification types.

Application evaluation process

When we receive notification relating to a new device, the details will be entered onto our register of cooling towers and evaporative condensers. Where changes are notified in relation to existing devices, the register will be amended accordingly.

Implied acknowledgment of notification ('tacit consent')

We aim to acknowledge your notification and the details onto our register within 28 days of receipt. It is our usual practice to contact you within this timeframe and undertake an inspection of your notified devices. 

If you do not hear from us within 28 days, you have the legal right (known as 'tacit consent') to assume that your notification is successful. However, if you have not heard from us within 14 days of submitting your application we request that you contact us.

Apply online

• Gov.uk: apply to change a cooling tower notification
• Gov.uk: notification of cooling towers and evaporative condensers

Public register

Download the Cooling towers and evaporative condensers register (PDF) [667KB]  to check whether a premises is registered, although please be aware the register is only periodically updated.

Notifier redress

We cannot refuse to register your notified devices. However, please contact us if you are concerned that your notification has not been acknowledged or if you have any grounds for complaint.

Consumer complaint

If you have any concerns regarding cooling towers or evaporative condensers in County Durham, please contact us. Alternatively, from outside the UK, you may contact the UK European Consumer Centre.