Awaab’s Law is a vital new measure introduced by the UK Government to make sure social housing tenants are protected from dangerous living conditions. Officially announced in June 2024 and due to come into force in October 2025, this law introduces strict legal requirements for landlords to fix hazards such as damp and mould in a timely manner.
Awaab’s Law is named in memory of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who tragically died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to mould in his social housing flat in Rochdale. His death prompted national outcry and urgent calls for reform in the social housing sector.
Under Awaab’s Law, social landlords in England will be legally required to:
These timeframes will become part of all social housing tenancy agreements, meaning landlords can be held legally accountable if they fail to comply.
The law applies specifically to social housing landlords in England, including:
It forms part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, which introduced a broader regulatory framework to strengthen oversight and accountability in the housing sector.
The new legal duty will come into force in October 2025, giving landlords and local authorities over a year to:
This phased implementation approach allows time for systems to be upgraded and staff to be trained, ensuring compliance and consistency across the sector.
Awaab’s Law is designed to empower tenants and protect them from prolonged exposure to health hazards such as damp, mould, and structural safety risks.
Benefits for tenants include:
Tenants will also be able to seek redress through the courts if their landlord fails to meet the timeframes set out in the law.
Government Commitment
Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, said:
“Awaab’s Law will force social landlords to take immediate action on dangerous damp and mould and other serious hazards – helping to prevent future tragedies.”
The law is part of a broader strategy to improve housing standards and restore public confidence in the social housing system.
Awaab’s Law marks a significant shift in the legal obligations of social landlords. By setting clear time limits for addressing housing hazards, the law ensures that no family has to suffer the consequences of unsafe housing again.
The government is committed to working with landlords, housing providers, and tenants to ensure the effective implementation of this law.
Information from Gov.uk - see more here.
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