Awaab's Law, What Do You Need To Know?

Why Was Awwab’s Law Created?

Awaab’s Law was introduced in response to the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, a two year old whose unfortunate death was caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s social housing. The law aims to ensure landlords take fast, effective action against hazards like damp and mould, prioritising tenant health and safety.

When Does Awaab’s Law Come Into Effect?

Awaab’s Law became enforceable on 27 October 2025 for social landlords across England. This first phase targets the social rented sector, including housing associations and council properties. Private rented homes are expected to come under the same regulations in the next few years, with full implementation planned by 2027.​

For landlords and letting agents, now is the time to act. The new law introduces legal timeframes that are not only strict but also closely monitored by housing regulators and the Ombudsman.

What Are the Main Requirements of Awaab’s Law?

Awaab’s Law places legal duties on social landlords to respond to hazards much faster than ever before:

• Emergency Repairs: Landlords must investigate and make safe any emergency hazards, such as dangerous mould, gas leaks, or fire risks, within 24 hours of being notified.

• Damp & Mould: If a tenant reports a significant issue such as damp or mould, the landlord must investigate within 10 days.

• Remedial Action: Once an investigation finds a problem, any necessary repairs must be started within 5 working days.

• Communication: Clear, prompt updates must be given to tenants at every step, ensuring they understand what has been found, what actions will be taken, and when work will happen.

• Temporary Moves: If a problem can’t be fixed quickly, landlords must arrange temporary accommodation to keep residents safe.

  
  

Landlords who fail to meet these deadlines risk regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and, crucially, leaving tenants exposed to real harm.​

Official Guidance and Support for Landlords

To help landlords comply, the government has released detailed Awaab’s Law guidance. This guidance makes clear that:​

• Landlords should review and improve their reporting systems, ensuring tenants can easily raise urgent issues in multiple ways (phone, email, online, in person).

• Staff must be trained to recognise hazards, respond quickly, and escalate issues where needed.

• Communication must account for different tenant needs, including language and disability.

• Landlords are encouraged to log and analyse every complaint, creating a clear record of when and how action was taken.

  
  

The Housing Ombudsman also provides learning hubs, case studies, and training for landlords to adopt best practices and avoid complaints.

What Awaab’s Law Means for Tenants

Awaab’s Law sets out new, enforceable rights for millions of tenants:

• Quicker Action: Repairs to serious hazards can no longer be delayed for weeks or months.

• Accountability: If a landlord does not act in time, tenants have the right to escalate complaints to the Housing Ombudsman or the Regulator of Social Housing.

• Health Focused: The law recognises that hazards like damp and mould are not just property issues, they are major health risks, especially for children, seniors, and vulnerable tenants.

• Clear Communication: Landlords are obligated to keep tenants informed, making the repair process more transparent and less stressful.

  
  

If a landlord fails to meet their obligations, regulators have new powers to act, creating stronger protection than ever before for tenants.​

What’s Next for Awaab’s Law?

The October 2025 launch is only the first phase. The government has made clear that more housing hazards, like faulty electrics, water leaks, structural dangers, and fire risks, will be added in 2026 and beyond. The private rental market will also face stricter standards, so all landlords should start preparing now.​ The future of social housing is now centred on prevention, fast response, and tenant safety, the principles at the heart of Awaab’s Law.

Contact Us

Are you a landlord or property manager needing help navigating Awaab’s Law and improving your housing standards? Cobalt Carbon Free specialises in delivering safe, sustainable, and compliant property solutions. Our team understands the requirements of Awaab’s Law inside out, offering inspections, responsive repairs, and comprehensive guidance for both landlords and tenants. Don’t wait until issues become emergencies, contact Cobalt today to discuss how we can help you put things right, achieve healthier and safer homes for everyone.