Awaab’s Law – What You Need to Know
From 27 October 2025, new regulations known as Awaab’s Law came into force. Awaab’s Law was introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020 as a result of a respiratory condition caused by mould exposure.
These new regulations set strict timelines for addressing health hazards in social housing.
Awaab’s Law: what’s changing?
- Emergency hazards (e.g. severe mould, gas leaks): must be made safe within 24 hours.
- Serious hazards (e.g. damp and mould): investigation within 10 working days, repairs to start within 5 working days after investigation.
- Tenant communication: landlords must provide a written summary of findings within 3 working days.
- If repairs can’t be completed promptly, safe temporary accommodation must be offered.
Awaab’s Law: who is affected?
Currently, these rules apply to social housing landlords (local authorities and housing associations). Similar requirements for private landlords are expected in 2026.
Awaab’s Law: why it matters
- Tenants: stronger rights to safe homes and clear timelines for action.
- Landlords: failure to comply could lead to legal consequences, reputational damage, and funding risks.
Next steps
If you manage social housing, review your processes now to ensure compliance. If you are a tenant, know your rights and report hazards promptly.
How Hamlins can help
Our Real Estate Disputes team has expertise in both commercial and residential property disputes. We seek to obtain the best outcome possible for every client, no matter how big or small the issue may be. For further guidance or to discuss how this impacts your organisation, please get in touch.