Awaab’s Law: What It Means for Landlords and Tenants

Awaab’s Law is a crucial piece of legislation aimed at tackling the dangers of mould and damp in rental properties. It sets strict deadlines for landlords to respond to and resolve mould-related issues, ensuring tenants live in safe, habitable conditions. Failure to comply could result in legal penalties. Whether you are a landlord looking to stay compliant or a tenant seeking to understand your rights, this guide will explain everything you need to know.

Understanding Awaab’s Law and Its Impact on Mould Remediation

 

Mould and damp in properties have long been a serious issue affecting the health and well-being of tenants. In response to growing concerns, Awaab’s Law has been introduced in the UK, compelling landlords and social housing providers to take quicker action when mould and damp problems are reported.

 

At Mould Removal London, we help landlords, housing associations, and property managers comply with this legislation and create safe, habitable living conditions for tenants. If you need assistance, call us at 0203 130 4068 or email [email protected].

 


 

What Is Awaab’s Law?

 

Awaab’s Law is named in memory of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who tragically lost his life due to prolonged exposure to black mould in his family’s home. His case highlighted the severe health risks of damp and mould, as well as the failure of landlords to take swift action in resolving these hazards.

 

The law now imposes strict timeframes for landlords to respond to reports of damp and mould and mandates necessary repairs within a legally set timeframe. This change ensures that tenants are no longer left waiting in unsafe living conditions.

 


 

Who Does Awaab’s Law Apply To?

 

Currently, Awaab’s Law applies exclusively to social housing landlords in England. This means that housing associations and local authorities must comply with the new legal requirements, ensuring they respond to and resolve damp and mould issues within the specified timeframes.

 

However, the UK government is considering extending these obligations to private landlords through the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill. Once this bill is enacted, a consultation process will determine how private landlords will be affected and how best to implement similar legal responsibilities.

 

For now, private landlords should stay informed about potential legislative changes that may bring similar compliance requirements in the near future. (Source: gov.uk)

 

When Does Awaab’s Law Come Into Effect?

 

Although Awaab’s Law has been enacted, it is being introduced in phases starting from October 2025. The key implementation stages are:

  • October 2025: Social landlords will be required to address damp and mould hazards that pose serious health risks within legally set timeframes. Emergency repairs, including those related to damp and mould, must be completed within 24 hours.

  • 2026: The law will expand to cover additional housing hazards, including excess cold, excess heat, risk of falls, structural collapse, fire, electrical, and explosion risks.

  • 2027: Awaab’s Law will encompass all remaining hazards listed in the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), except for overcrowding.

This phased approach ensures landlords have time to comply with the new requirements while improving safety for tenants. (Source: gov.uk)

Key Requirements Under Awaab’s Law

For landlords, property managers, and housing providers, understanding these legal responsibilities is crucial. The law requires:

  • Prompt Acknowledgment: Landlords must respond to reports of damp and mould within a specific timeframe.
  • Actionable Repairs: Repairs must be carried out within a legally set deadline to prevent further health risks.
  • Tenant Protection: If landlords fail to act within the required time, legal action can be taken, and fines may be imposed.
  • Proactive Maintenance: Housing providers must take preventative measures to avoid damp and mould issues before they become hazardous.

 

The Risks of Ignoring Damp and Mould

If left untreated, mould and damp can cause serious health issues, particularly for children, elderly individuals, and those with respiratory conditions like asthma. Common health risks include:

  • Breathing difficulties and respiratory infections
  • Worsening of asthma and allergies
  • Skin and eye irritation
  • Compromised immune systems in vulnerable individuals

Under Awaab’s Law, failure to address these issues swiftly can result in legal repercussions for landlords, including fines, legal action, and reputational damage.


 

How We Help Landlords and Housing Providers Stay Compliant

At Mould Removal London, we specialise in expert mould remediation, damp surveys, and preventative treatments to help you comply with Awaab’s Law. Our services include:

Mould Removal & Treatment – Safe, effective removal using industry-leading techniques.

Damp Surveys & Reports – Identifying the root cause of mould issues and providing actionable solutions.

Preventative Solutions – Installing ventilation, anti-mould coatings, and moisture control measures.

Emergency Response Services – Fast-track remediation to help you meet legal deadlines.


 

Learn More About Awaab’s Law

If you would like to learn more about Awaab’s Law, there is a free course on the UKAME website available to the general public. If you are a landlord, you can attend the Mould Awareness Training to gain deeper insights into your legal obligations and best practices for compliance.

🔗 Find out more about Mould Awareness Training here


 

Get Expert Mould Remediation Today

If you’re a landlord, property manager, or housing provider, ensuring your properties are mould-free and legally compliant is now more important than ever. Let us help you stay on top of these new legal requirements and protect your tenants.

📞 Call us today on 0203 130 4068

📧 Email us at [email protected]

Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your tenants and your property today with Mould Removal London.

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