Awaab’s Law: What Commercial and Private Landlords Can Learn
Dowload your FREE Landlord Factsheet at the bottom of this post
Although Awaab’s Law currently applies only to social housing providers, its introduction marks a significant shift in how the UK approaches housing safety, health, and accountability.
For commercial and private landlords, this legislation provides an important signal: higher expectations are coming. The principles behind Awaab’s Law – timely repairs, proactive maintenance, and clear tenant communication – represent best practice standards that every landlord should start implementing now.
What Is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law comes into effect from 27 October 2025, requiring social landlords to investigate and repair damp, mould, and ventilation issues within strict legal timeframes.
The law was created following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020, caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s home. It ensures such a tragedy cannot happen again by making landlords legally accountable for timely action.
Key requirements include:
Emergency hazards (such as severe damp, mould, or dangerous electrics) must be investigated within 24 hours.
Significant damp and mould issues must be investigated within 10 working days.
Where risks are confirmed, repairs must begin within 5 working days of investigation.
Tenants must be provided with written updates at every stage.
Initially, these requirements will apply to social housing, but there is growing pressure for private and commercial landlords to meet similar standards in future housing reforms.
Why This Matters for Private and Commercial Landlords
Even if your properties fall outside the social housing sector, the expectations for housing safety and environmental standards are changing.
It’s a Model for Future Regulation
Awaab’s Law is likely to shape broader housing legislation, extending to the private rented sector over time. Acting now allows landlords to stay ahead of future compliance requirements.
Protecting Tenant Health Protects Your Business
Mould, damp, and poor ventilation don’t just harm tenants – they damage your property assets. Untreated damp can lead to costly structural repairs, legal claims, and reputational harm.
Regular maintenance of ventilation systems and extractor fans is a simple, preventative measure that helps:
Reduce condensation and surface mould
Maintain air quality and energy efficiency
Extend the life of internal finishes and fixtures
Improved Tenant Relationships and Retention
Being proactive about maintenance and communication builds trust. Tenants who feel safe and supported are more likely to stay longer, pay on time, and treat the property with respect.
Reduced Legal and Financial Risk
Even without the force of Awaab’s Law in the private sector, landlords already face potential liability under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and general landlord repair obligations under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. Implementing Awaab’s Law principles now helps reduce exposure to future disputes or enforcement action.
How to Apply Awaab’s Law Principles in Private and Commercial Property
Inspect and Test Ventilation Regularly
Check extractor fans, MVHR, MEV, and CMEV systems for proper operation.
Schedule annual maintenance and airflow testing.
Replace filters and clean ducts to prevent blockages.
Act Fast on Reports of Damp or Mould
Investigate within 48 hours of any tenant report.
Record findings and communicate clearly with the tenant.
Keep Written Records
Document inspections, repairs, and communications.
Keep photographic evidence of any works completed.
Provide Clear Tenant Information
Educate tenants on how to use extractor fans, open vents, and reduce condensation.
Encourage early reporting of issues.
Partner with Reliable Contractors
Work with trusted service providers for ventilation testing, electrical safety checks, and damp remediation.
Schedule planned preventative maintenance to avoid costly emergencies.
Future-Proofing Your Property Portfolio
While Awaab’s Law is a social housing regulation, it sets the tone for the entire property industry. Landlords who take proactive steps now will not only stay ahead of compliance changes but also:
Preserve asset value
Reduce repair costs
Strengthen tenant trust and brand reputation
At UKFSL, we work with landlords and property managers to deliver:
Extractor fan and ventilation system testing
Electrical compliance and maintenance
Mould and damp prevention support
Documentation and reporting for audits and tenancy records
By investing in routine inspection and maintenance, you can protect both your tenants and your business.
Act Now
Awaab’s Law marks a defining shift in how housing safety is managed in the UK. For commercial and private landlords, it offers a clear roadmap for responsible property management – one where prevention, accountability, and communication take priority.
Taking action now isn’t just about staying compliant — it’s about building a more sustainable, reputable, and resilient property portfolio.
To learn more about damp, mould, and ventilation testing or to arrange a compliance inspection, contact us today.