Social landlords now forced to fix 'emergencies' in 24 hours

The first phase of Awaab's law, which promises to protect tenants from dangerous social housing conditions, comes into force in England today.

- Chris Osuh

The law, named in memory of a two-year-old who died after exposure to mould in his own home, compels landlords to fix “emergency health and safety hazards” within 24 hours of reporting, investigate significant damp and mould within 10 working days of being notified, make properties safe within five working days after inspection, and write with the findings to tenants within three working days of inspection completing.

Awaab Ishak died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to mould in the property his parents rented on Rochdale's Freehold estate, Greater Manchester, from social landlords Rochdale Boroughwide Housing.

Awaab's law comes after campaigning from his family and the Manchester Evening News.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government says the changes will improve lives for tenants and families living in England's 4m social rented homes.

The reforms mean that social landlords must now also consider the circumstances of tenants that could put them at risk - including having young children, disabilities or health conditions.