Awaab’s Law Brings New Protections for Tenants

Starting today, Awaab’s Law will aim to make social housing safer for tenants, setting strict deadlines for landlords to fix issues like damp and mould.

Under the new rules, landlords must inspect reported problems within 10 working days and make homes safe within five. More urgent risks – such as gas leaks or damp and mould that is directly affecting a tenant’s health – must be inspected within 24 hours.

If landlords are unable to meet these deadlines, they’ll need to offer tenants alternative accommodation while the problems are being addressed.

In cases where social landlords don’t follow the rules, tenants will now have the ability to take legal action on the basis of there being a breach of contract.

Why has Awaab’s Law been introduced?

Awaab’s Law – originally passed in July 2023 – is named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s flat. Awaab’s parents had repeatedly raised concerns with their landlord, but no action was taken.

An inquest later found that the mould contributed directly to Awaab’s death, with the coroner in his case stating that ventilation in the one-bedroom flat had been ineffective.

This is a problem faced by many tenants in social housing. Experts have even referred to a “national epidemic of damp and mould cases” in England, supporting the need for stronger legislation.

How has the new legislation been received?

Housing Secretary Steve Reed has said the changes will “give tenants a stronger voice and force landlords to act urgently when lives are at risk”.

The introduction of Awaab’s Law has been welcomed by campaigners and housing charities as an important step in improving living standards and accountability in the social housing sector.

But there are concerns about how far the protections go. Currently, Awaab’s Law only applies to social landlords, such as councils and housing associations. It doesn’t include the 4.6 million private renters in England.

The government has said it plans to extend the law to the private rented sector but hasn’t confirmed when this will happen.

What does Awaab’s Law mean for tenants?

For tenants in social housing, Awaab’s Law represents a significant strengthening of their rights. Landlords are now legally required to respond to issues like mould and damp quickly, and tenants will have the legal grounds to take action if they don’t.

If you live in social housing and your landlord has failed to deal with problems like damp, mould or other health hazards, you could have a housing disrepair claim. Fill in our quick online form to find out how we could help you.