Housing Law: Council and Housing Association Tenant's rights - Mould and Damp issues

Housing law - Awaab's Law

Awaab’s Law: Making Homes Safer for Tenants in the UK

Awaab’s Law is a major new housing regulation in England aimed at improving the safety and health standards of rented homes, particularly in social housing. It is named after Awaab Ishak, a two‑year‑old child who tragically died in 2020 from respiratory illness caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s home. His death highlighted serious gaps in how housing hazards were addressed and led to calls for stronger tenant protections. (National Housing Federation)

The law came into effect on 27 October 2025 and introduces legally binding timeframes requiring social landlords—such as councils and housing associations—to investigate and fix dangerous conditions quickly. At its first stage, it covers issues like damp, mould, and emergency hazards that could pose significant health or safety risks. (havant.gov.uk)

Under the initial phase of Awaab’s Law:

• Emergency hazards (e.g., severe damp, fire risks, unsafe electrics) must be investigated and made safe within 24 hours of being reported. (havant.gov.uk)

• Significant mould and damp problems must be investigated within 10 working days, with a written summary provided soon after. (havant.gov.uk)

• If a serious hazard is confirmed, work to make the property safe must begin promptly, typically within five working days. (havant.gov.uk)

• If repairs cannot be completed quickly, landlords may need to provide alternative accommodation at no cost until the home is safe. (Plus Dane Housing)

The law is being rolled out in phases. After the initial focus on damp and mould, future stages (in 2026 and 2027) will bring additional hazards—such as excess cold or heat, fire and electrical risks, and structural issues—under strict repair requirements. (walthamforest.gov.uk)

Awaab’s Law marks a significant shift in tenant rights, placing stronger accountability on landlords to act swiftly when tenants report health and safety concerns. Failure to comply can lead to enforcement action, empowering tenants to hold landlords to account. (GOV.UK)