Awaab's Law: what landlords should know.
Awaab's Law currently applies to the social rented sector in England. The government has also legislated for powers to extend Awaab's Law to private rented homes, with the detailed requirements and timing to be set through regulations and the implementation programme.
What is Awaab's Law?
Awaab's Law is named after Awaab Ishak and forms part of the social-housing hazard framework in England. It sets requirements around how certain hazards in social homes are assessed, addressed and communicated.
Why does this matter for damp and mould?
Damp and mould can be significant housing hazards. Good property-condition evidence helps landlords and housing professionals understand what has been observed, what action may be required and whether specialist investigation is needed.
What does this mean for private landlords?
Awaab's Law does not currently apply to every private landlord. However, the government's Renters' Rights Act implementation roadmap places the extension of Awaab's Law and a Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector in a later phase, with the timing marked TBC. For landlords, it is sensible to understand property condition, damp and mould risks and the evidence available before new requirements take effect.
Stay ahead with better property information
- Damp, mould and condition reporting
- Photographic and written observations
- Property measurements where relevant
- Clear identification of areas requiring further investigation
- Practical condition information to support landlord planning
This page is general information, not legal advice. The private-rented-sector extension of Awaab's Law is subject to the government's implementation programme and detailed regulations. Always check the latest GOV.UK guidance and the applicable rules for the property.
Official Awaab's Law guidance → Private rented sector roadmap →