What is Awaab’s Law?

There are countless rules and regulations that landlords must be aware of to manage their properties or wider portfolios in a safe and fully compliant manner. Whether managing your own buy-to-let property or enlisting professional help, having sound knowledge of the latest legislation is crucial.

One of the newest legal requirements introduced to the property market is Awaab’s Law. Read on to discover the facts behind the legislation, who will be affected, and how landlords everywhere can prepare.

What is Awaab’s Law?

Under Awaab’s Law, landlords must abide by specific timeframes to ensure issues like mould and damp are investigated (within two weeks) and repairs are started (up to seven days after inspection).

Any emergency works required must also be undertaken within 24 hours after the issue has been reported. Failure to comply with Awaab’s Law, and the proposed timeframes, will mean court action. The affected tenant(s) will be eligible for compensation too.

Why was Awaab’s Law established?

Awaab Ishak was just two years old when he tragically lost his life due to a respiratory condition in 2020. Originally from Sudan, Awaab and his family moved to a flat in Rochdale managed by Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH). What ensued was a catalogue of failings involving an ongoing mould issue that was reported repeatedly by Awaab’s father.

Despite lodging countless complaints, the Ishak family were ignored and simply told to “paint over it”. Due to exposure to the mould and lack of ventilation within the property, Awaab suffered from constant colds and respiratory issues throughout his short life. He went on to be admitted into hospital for treatment for shortness of breath.

His condition continued to deteriorate following his discharge. The next day, after being transferred to hospital once again, Awaab went into cardiac and respiratory arrest, and passed away. Awaab’s Law was passed in response to his tragic death.

Who must comply with Awaab’s Law?

Awaab’s Law was initially introduced as part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 to ensure social housing is properly maintained in a timely manner and tenant safety upheld. Due to recent changes to the legislation, the law now applies to landlords of private residences too.

Christian Weaver, the barrister who represented Awaab’s family, explains why this extension is a move in the right direction yet just the beginning:

“This law must be paired with a robust education campaign to ensure tenants understand their rights. It is essential that systems are in place to provide legal aid and support for tenants wishing to take action in court if a breach of Awaab’s Law occurs, particularly for those who might not otherwise have the means to do so.”

How can landlords prepare?

Preparing your property for tenants is of course a priority, whatever your portfolio size or buy-to-let property type. 

There are many ways you can prepare for and comply with the new standards set out in Awaab’s Law. Being vigilant about the frequency of inspections is a great place to begin. Your rentals should be checked on a regular basis so problems can be spotted and remedied before they compromise tenant safety. 

Keeping the lines of communication open with tenants will also ensure issues aren’t missed. You should be on hand to provide advice and support to your tenants regarding how they can prevent problems and identify the tell-tale signs every step of the way.

For further advice and guidance on all things buy-to-let, including landlord rules and responsibilities, please browse our blog roll.