Awaab’s Law came in to effect October 2025, introducing strict new rules requiring social landlords to investigate and remedy dangerous damp and mould within fixed timeframes. They are also legally obliged to carry out emergency repairs within 24 hours.
Awaab’s Law: Strengthening tenants’ rights
The new law is part of the government’s broader effort to improve safety and living standards in social housing. Named after Awaab Ishak — the two-year-old who tragically died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his Rochdale home — the legislation gives social tenants the legal tools to hold negligent landlords accountable. Those who fail to comply may face court action.
To ensure effective implementation, the law will be rolled out in stages. This phased approach allows the government to prioritise action on damp and mould while testing and refining processes before extending the law to cover a wider range of hazards by 2027. This step-by-step method also honours the commitment and determination shown by Awaab’s family to ensure lasting reform.
These vital changes are expected to bring about real and lasting improvements in the safety and quality of social housing. They also support the government’s wider Plan for Change, which includes a pledge to deliver the most significant increase in social and affordable housing in a generation — with a target of building 1.5 million new homes.
A moral duty to protect tenants
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:
“We have a moral duty to ensure tragedies like Awaab Ishak’s never happen again.
Landlords must no longer be allowed to rent out homes that put lives at risk.
Our new laws will make sure problems are fixed swiftly, so people feel safe and proud to live in social housing.”
In the meantime, landlords remain responsible for keeping homes safe. They are already required to ensure properties are fit for human habitation and comply with the Decent Homes Standard. Awaab’s Law will build on these existing responsibilities, setting out firmer and clearer legal expectations.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook added:
“Awaab Ishak’s family have shown immense strength in their campaign for change. Their efforts will now help protect countless others in social housing.
Awaab’s Law will help usher in a new era of fairness, safety and dignity for tenants.”
Further reforms on the way
Further measures to raise housing standards and rebuild trust between tenants and landlords are also planned, including:
- Extending Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector via powers in the forthcoming Renters’ Rights Bill. A consultation will ensure this is applied fairly and proportionately.
- Reviewing and updating the Decent Homes Standard, alongside proposals for improved minimum energy efficiency, to make homes warmer and more resilient.
- Introducing mandatory electrical safety checks at least every five years for social homes, including regular inspections of landlord-provided appliances.
These reforms are part of a wider commitment to deliver not just more homes — but better, safer homes for all.
