Government has announced Awaab’s Law will take effect in October. The Renters’ Rights Bill is still being ironed out for the private rented sector, but this legislation is coming for the social housing sector.
What is Awaab’s Law
Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old living in social housing in Rochdale, died in 2020 as a result of a severe respiratory condition caused by prolonged exposure to extensive mould in his home. His tragic death triggered review of health and safety guidance for the social housing sector.
The law requires social housing providers to investigate hazards within specified time limits (such as 24 hours for an emergency), and private landlords will almost certainly follow suit.
There will be a phased approach: damp and mould first, structural, electrical and hygiene hazards in 2026, then remaining HHSRS hazards in 2027.
What it means for landlords
If your property has a problem, it’s your responsibility to assess root cause and repair. For mould/damp, this could mean installing adequate ventilation, introducing more insulation, or simply fixing a leak. You can’t just paint over the problem, as Awaab’s parents were first advised to do.
Awaab’s Law sets strict timeframes for addressing repairs. Delaying work will see serious penalties, especially as local authorities will likely look to make examples of landlords.
If you have an issue at your property, we can advise a course of action to sort it as soon as possible.
What it means for tenants
Although there are robust guidelines for landlords around maintaining rental properties, many tenants who raise concerns feel fobbed off, much like the situation Awaab’s parents faced. Under Awaab’s Law, landlords will have little choice but to remedy, or else expect punishment.
Tenants should report any issues quickly so they don’t escalate, and make sure to do their part in keeping mould/damp at bay.
It’s good practice to dry clothes outside where possible, wipe away condensation, and heat and ventilate rooms properly. Shock ventilation (opening windows once a day for five minutes in winter, 10-15 minutes in autumn, and half an hour in summer) is effective in improving indoor air quality and regulating humidity. If you're struggling with the costs of heating your home sufficiently, contact your energy provider for advice and options.
Questions around Awaab’s Law? Contact us.
01525 402266
ampthill@orchards.co.uk
