Landlord responsibilities in the UK have always evolved in response to societal needs and safety concerns. Awaab’s Law is one of the most significant recent developments, sparked by a tragic incident that exposed a gap in the housing safety framework. For landlords, understanding the timeline and implications of this law is not just about legal compliance—it’s about safeguarding tenant wellbeing and maintaining property standards.
Who was Awaab Ishak and why it matters
Awaab Ishak was a two-year-old boy living in social housing in Rochdale. In December 2020, he tragically died from a respiratory condition caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his home. Despite repeated complaints from his family, remedial action was delayed. His preventable death drew national attention and triggered a call for sweeping reforms in housing standards.
What is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law is a legislative amendment to the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023. It places legal requirements on landlords to respond promptly to hazards such as damp and mould in their properties. The aim is to prevent similar tragedies by enforcing clear timescales and accountability for addressing serious health and safety issues in rental housing.
When was Awaab’s Law introduced?
The government formally announced Awaab’s Law in November 2022, following the coroner’s findings into Awaab’s death. It was swiftly incorporated into housing reform discussions and became law as part of the broader Social Housing (Regulation) Act, which received Royal Assent in July 2023.
Initial government response and consultations
Immediately after the announcement, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) launched consultations with housing associations, local councils, and tenant advocacy groups. The goal was to design a system that balanced speed of enforcement with practicalities of implementation. This feedback process informed the development of the official guidance and secondary legislation.
The role of local agents
Professional property management is critical in adapting to regulatory change. Local agents like CJ Hole Worcester, with deep community ties and operational expertise, can help landlords navigate compliance requirements with minimal disruption. From proactive inspections to swift maintenance support, their services can be the difference between compliance and costly oversight.
Key milestones in the legislative process
- November 2022: Awaab’s Law announced by the government
- January 2023: Public consultations open
- May 2023: Draft legislation published
- July 2023: Law passed with Royal Assent
- Autumn 2023: Regulatory framework under development
- Spring 2024: Compliance consultation closes
- Summer 2024: Final regulations expected to be published
Implementation timeline for social landlords
Social landlords are at the forefront of the legislation. Once the final regulations are published in mid-2024, all registered social housing providers will have a short window—likely three to six months—to embed the new timescales into their operational processes. This includes updating internal systems, staff training, and policy documentation. Enforcement is expected to begin in early 2025.
How Awaab’s Law affects private landlords
While the law is primarily targeted at social housing, its ripple effects are significant for private landlords. Regulatory scrutiny has increased across the board, and local authorities are empowered to enforce minimum housing standards more strictly. In areas where damp and mould are prevalent, private landlords are likely to see more inspections and tenant complaints.
New obligations around damp and mould
Under Awaab’s Law, landlords must adhere to set timeframes:
- 14 days to investigate any reports of damp or mould
- 7 additional days to begin appropriate remediation
- Urgent cases may require immediate intervention
Landlords are also expected to document their actions and communicate clearly with tenants throughout the process.
Timescales for addressing hazards
These statutory timeframes represent a shift from reactive to proactive property management. The emphasis is on early detection, timely repair, and robust tenant engagement. Failure to adhere to these timescales may be treated as a breach of housing fitness, carrying financial and reputational consequences.
Penalties for non-compliance
Non-compliant landlords may face enforcement notices, rent repayment orders, fines, or, in severe cases, criminal prosecution. The Housing Ombudsman will have enhanced powers to investigate complaints, and local authorities will have broader discretion to escalate enforcement.
Preparing your property portfolio for compliance
Landlords should act now to future-proof their assets. Conducting property condition surveys, improving ventilation systems, installing dehumidifiers where necessary, and keeping accurate maintenance records will ensure readiness. Responsive repairs teams and tenant communication channels must be in place well before enforcement begins.
Final reflections on landlord accountability
Awaab’s Law is more than a legal amendment—it’s a moral imperative. It reflects a societal shift towards holding landlords accountable for safe, habitable living conditions. For the responsible landlord, it’s an opportunity to improve standards, protect tenants, and build trust. With a clear timeline and actionable requirements, those who act early will not only avoid penalties—they’ll help lead the charge toward a more humane and professional rental sector.