Awaab’s Law Explainer

Awaab’s Law| What You Need to Know 

New rules to keep social housing tenants safer in their homes come into force today (Monday 27 October 2025) 

What is Awaab’s Law?  

Awaab’s Law is a new legal duty for social landlords to fix dangerous housing problems quickly — especially damp and mould. It’s named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who tragically died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to mould in his home.  

This law is designed to make sure unsafe conditions are not left untreated and that landlords act fast when lives are at risk.  

What’s changing from today? 

Social landlords (like councils and housing associations) must now follow strict timeframes to fix serious problems:  

• Emergency hazards (e.g. major leaks, exposed wiring):  
  Must be fixed within 24 hours  
• Damp and mould:  
  Must be investigated within 10 working days  
  Must be made safe within 5 working days after inspection  
  Tenants must be told the findings within 3 working days after inspection has finished 

Landlords must also consider tenants’ individual circumstances — for example, if there are young children, health conditions or disabilities — and act faster where needed. If a home can’t be made safe in time, alternative accommodation must be offered.  

Why does this matter?  

This law gives tenants stronger rights and puts pressure on landlords to listen and act. It’s part of a wider push to make sure social housing is safe, respectful and fair. 

What does this mean for me?  

If you live in social housing in England:  

• You can report damp, mould or other hazards and expect action within the new legal timeframes.  

• If your landlord doesn’t act, you can challenge them — and they could face legal consequences, including being taken to court and forced to pay compensation. 

• You’ll soon see more support and clearer guidance on your rights through the government’s Make Things Right campaign.  

Quick facts  

• Awaab’s Law applies to social landlords now and will be extended to private landlords in the future.  

• More protections will be added for social tenants in 2026 and 2027, covering things like fire risks, cold, heat and hygiene hazards.  

Where can I get help? 

• Visit gov.uk for guidance on your rights under Awaab’s Law.  

• If your landlord isn’t responding, use the Make Things Right campaign to escalate your complaint.  

• You can also speak to your local council or the Housing Ombudsman.