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Awaab's Law: what it means for landlords and damp & mould
Awaab's Law has put damp and mould firmly on every landlord's agenda. Here's a plain-English summary of what it is, who it applies to, and the practical steps to act quickly when a tenant reports damp or mould. This is general information, not legal advice — always check the latest gov.uk guidance.
What is Awaab's Law?
Awaab's Law is named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old who died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to mould in social housing. Introduced through the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, it requires social landlords in England to investigate and fix serious hazards such as damp and mould within set timescales rather than leaving them unaddressed. The government has consulted on the exact timescales for investigating and repairing reported hazards.
What landlords must do
In practice the direction of travel is clear: when a tenant reports damp or mould, landlords are expected to
- investigate promptly to assess the hazard,
- act within defined timescales to make the home safe,
- keep the tenant informed throughout, and
- keep records of the report and the action taken.
Ignoring or slow-walking damp and mould complaints is exactly what the law is designed to stop.
Does it apply to private landlords?
Awaab's Law began with social housing, but the government has set out plans to extend similar duties to the private rented sector through the Renters' Rights legislation. Private landlords are well advised to take the same approach now: respond quickly to damp and mould, document it, and resolve it. Check current gov.uk guidance for what applies to you.
How to act quickly on damp and mould
The first job is to make the home safe and dry while any longer-term repair is arranged. That means treating visible mould, addressing the moisture source, and drying the property out. Hiring a dehumidifier (or several for a larger property) is a fast, low-cost way to pull the moisture out and demonstrate prompt action. Find the property's town to arrange local dehumidifier hire.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Awaab's Law timescales?
The Act introduces fixed timescales for investigating and fixing reported damp and mould hazards in social housing; the exact periods have been the subject of government consultation. Check gov.uk for the current confirmed timescales.
Does Awaab's Law apply to private rentals?
It started with social housing in England, but the government has announced plans to extend similar duties to private landlords. Acting promptly on damp and mould is sensible for any landlord now.
How can a dehumidifier help a landlord?
It dries a damp property out quickly while repairs are arranged, helps clear the conditions mould needs, and shows you acted promptly — useful evidence of taking a report seriously.