What Awaab’s Law means for Landlords
Awaab’s Law has come into force for the social rented sector in England, brought into effect following the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, a two-year old boy who died in 2020 due to prolonged exposure to mould, which led to him developing a severe respiratory condition. This new law makes it mandatory for Social Landlords to investigate (and repair) once they are made aware of potential hazards within a home.
Under the new legislation, social landlords are required to:
- Investigate reported hazards (including damp and mould) without delay
Complete necessary repairs within specified timeframes
Avoid blaming “lifestyle choices” as the default cause of damp or mould without full investigation
- Carry out thorough inspections, including:
Heating systems
Insulation
- Ventilation (including trickle vents and extractor fans)
Document the condition of the property to demonstrate compliance with health and safety standards
Important to note: The law makes it clear that tenants must not be held responsible without evidence that the property itself is not a contributing factor.
How Groundwork’s Green Doctors Help
Our Green Doctors help bridge the gap between tenants and landlords. They carry out home visits across Greater Manchester, often identifying early signs of damp and mould. Our team also:
Educate residents on how mould forms and how to reduce its risk
Discuss behaviours that can help, such as drying clothes outdoors and using ventilation where safe
Advise on what to do if mould is spotted, especially for residents with health vulnerabilities
Refer residents for additional support, including:
Fuel vouchers
Portable heaters
Dehumidifiers
Our Green Doctors are here to provide practical, respectful support.