Awaab's Law: What UK Landlords Need to Know

What is Awaab's Law?

Awaab's Law, named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak who tragically died in 2020 due to prolonged exposure to mould in his family's housing association flat in Rochdale, represents a landmark change in UK housing legislation.

The law, introduced as part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, sets strict timeframes for social housing landlords to address hazards like damp and mould. It's a direct response to the failures that led to Awaab's death and aims to prevent similar tragedies.

Key Requirements

Under Awaab's Law, social landlords must:

• Investigate hazards within 14 days of being informed of a potential issue

• Begin repairs within 7 days once a hazard is confirmed

• Complete emergency repairs within 24 hours if there's an imminent risk to health

• Provide written timescales to tenants for all repair work

  
  

Impact on Private Landlords

While Awaab's Law currently applies specifically to social housing, the government has indicated plans to extend similar requirements to the private rented sector. Private landlords should prepare now by:

• Conducting regular property inspections

• Responding promptly to tenant complaints

• Documenting all maintenance and repairs

• Getting professional mould and damp assessments

  
  

HHSRS and Category 1 Hazards

Damp and mould can constitute a Category 1 hazard under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). Local authorities have the power to take enforcement action against landlords who fail to address such hazards, including:

• Improvement notices

• Prohibition orders

• Civil penalties up to £30,000

• Prosecution with unlimited fines

  
  

How Mould Detect Can Help

Our comprehensive mould inspections provide landlords with the documentation and evidence needed to demonstrate compliance. We identify issues early, provide detailed reports, and work with our sister company LWR to deliver complete remediation solutions.

Don't wait for a complaint, proactive mould management protects your tenants and your investment.