In a defining moment for housing safety in the UK, the government is set to introduce Awaab’s Law, a new legal measure compelling social landlords to address serious health hazards such as damp and mould within strict timeframes.
This vital legislation follows the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020, whose life was cut short after prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s social housing flat. Despite repeated complaints, no meaningful action was taken by the housing association, highlighting dangerous delays in how such issues are currently addressed.
At Alpine Surveys, we have consistently highlighted the health risks linked to untreated damp and mould. The introduction of Awaab’s Law signals a long-overdue step in the right direction and we are ready to support landlords and housing providers in meeting these new responsibilities.
What Will Awaab’s Law Do?
As part of amendments to the Social Housing (Regulation) Bill, Awaab’s Law will:
- Set clear legal deadlines for social landlords to investigate and resolve damp, mould, and other health hazards.
- Require these response times to be written into tenancy agreements, giving tenants a legal basis to challenge inaction.
- Introduce new guidance for landlords on assessing and resolving damp and mould, in line with the latest health standards.
- Ensure that landlords implement proper record-keeping systems to monitor, prevent, and address environmental hazards in their properties.
These measures are designed to prevent future tragedies, hold housing providers accountable and protect tenants, especially vulnerable families and individuals living in older or energy-inefficient homes.
A Defining Moment for the Sector
Described by Senior Coroner Joanne Kearsley as a “defining moment” for the housing sector, Awaab’s Law places new emphasis on the urgency of responding to environmental health risks.
Speaking after a visit to Rochdale, Housing Secretary Michael Gove acknowledged that the existing system failed Awaab’s family. He committed to introducing new rules that will force landlords to act swiftly when serious hazards are reported, no more waiting, no more excuses.
What This Means for Landlords and Housing Providers
Landlords will no longer be able to defer repairs or overlook complaints involving damp and mould. Instead, they will be expected to:
- Investigate reported hazards immediately, with urgent cases requiring a response within 24 hours.
- Fix root causes, not just treat visible mould or patch up damage.
- Follow strict timeframes for both inspection and repair completion.
- Provide evidence of compliance with new legal standards.
Failure to comply could result in legal action, reputational damage, and most importantly, ongoing risks to tenant health.
How Alpine Surveys Can Help You Prepare
At Alpine Surveys, we have already seen increased demand from housing associations, landlords, and local authorities seeking to proactively assess their housing stock ahead of the law’s enforcement.
Our damp and mould inspection services provide:
- Detailed property surveys by experienced Building Surveyors.
- Identification of underlying causes (such as poor ventilation, rising damp, or plumbing leaks).
- Moisture mapping, humidity checks, and thermal imaging for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Clear, jargon-free reports with actionable recommendations.
- Follow-up advice on mitigation, repairs, and ventilation strategies.
We do not sell remedial products or receive commissions, our only goal is to provide honest, unbiased reports to help you protect your tenants and comply with the law.
Prepare Now — Don’t Wait for the Law to Catch Up
While Awaab’s Law is expected to come into force in October 2025, the responsibility to act is already clear. Delaying inspections or ignoring early signs of damp can result in long-term property damage, rising costs and most importantly, avoidable health risks.
Whether you are a landlord, housing officer, or property manager, now is the time to take action.
Book a Professional Damp & Mould Survey Today
At Alpine Surveys, we bring over 30 years of surveying expertise to every property inspection. Our team operates across the UK, providing responsive, expert advice to support safer, healthier homes. Call now for further assistance 0330 333 9238.