Awaab’s Law and How We Can Help
In response to the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s rented home, the UK Government has introduced Awaab’s Law – a new legal framework designed to ensure tenants are no longer left living in unsafe conditions.
The legislation places clear, enforceable responsibilities on landlords to investigate and resolve serious health hazards such as damp and mould – promptly, professionally, and within fixed timeframes.
What Is Awaab’s Law?
From October 2025, social landlords will be required to investigate and remedy damp and mould hazards that present a significant risk to tenants’ health, and to do so within set time limits. Emergency repairs – whether related to damp and mould or not – must be addressed as soon as possible, and no later than within 24 hours.
These changes will be introduced in phases, extending the scope of the law in the years that follow. In 2026, landlords will also be expected to respond quickly to a wider range of risks, including excess cold and heat, fire, electrical hazards, falls, and hygiene concerns. By 2027, Awaab’s Law will apply to all remaining hazards defined by the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), with the exception of overcrowding.
Why This Matters for Landlords
Awaab’s Law introduces strict response deadlines, backed by legal enforcement. Non-compliance may result in prosecution or enforcement notices. It also empowers tenants to report unsafe conditions with the expectation of swift and decisive action.
This represents a shift from reactive maintenance to proactive housing management and introduces clear accountability for how quickly landlords respond.
Preparation Is Key to Meeting Legal Obligations
Meeting legal obligations isn’t just about working quickly. Landlords and housing providers must ensure they have the right processes, resources, and documentation in place. A clear audit trail from the initial tenant report, to final repair will be essential in demonstrating compliance and defending against possible legal action.
Although the legislation comes into force in October 2025, the time to prepare is now.
Housing (Scotland) Bill
As part of ongoing housing reform, the Scottish Government has introduced the Housing (Scotland) Bill, which strengthens tenants’ rights and reinforces the duty of landlords to maintain properties to a safe and habitable standard. While Awaab’s Law addresses the urgent need for damp and mould to be treated within strict timeframes in England, the Housing (Scotland) Bill reflects Scotland’s commitment to improving housing conditions through enhanced enforcement powers and a clearer focus on tenant safety.
How Richardson & Starling Can Help
With over 90 years of experience in property preservation, Richardson & Starling are well-placed to support landlords and housing providers in meeting the requirements of Awaab’s Law.
Our services include:
- Professional inspections to identify the source and extent of damp, mould, and condensation issues
- Rapid deployment of specialist repair teams to meet legal timescales
- Effective treatment using advanced methods and materials
- Long-term prevention plans tailored to each property
- Detailed reporting and certification to support compliance
- 24-hour emergency response for urgent cases
A Proven Compliance Framework
To support housing providers in meeting the new legal requirements, Richardson & Starling has developed the SMART Process, a five-step approach to ensure timely, effective, and compliant damp and mould remediation.
- Survey: Conduct detailed assessments using our enhanced checklist within 14 days
- Mitigation: Carry out localised cleaning and material removal using safe and certified methods
- Apply: Install ventilation, insulation, anti-condensation coatings, and remedy underlying damp sources
- Reassure: Complete post-inspection and tenant handover with SMART™ completion pack
- Track: Monitor conditions using environmental sensors and provide data-driven updates
Whether you manage a single property or a large portfolio, we can help you safeguard your tenants, maintain compliance, and reduce future risks.
Don’t Wait for the Deadline. Act Now!
The legal duties set out in Awaab’s Law are fast approaching. Taking proactive steps now will ensure your properties are compliant, your tenants are protected, and your operations are prepared.
Contact us today to arrange a survey or speak with one of our property specialists.