Social landlords across England are now legally required to address emergency hazards in their properties within 24 hours under sweeping new regulations that took effect this week. The landmark legislation, dubbed 'Awaab's Law', follows the heartbreaking case of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died in 2020 from a respiratory condition caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his family's Rochdale flat.
What Counts as an Emergency?
The new rules define emergency hazards as situations that pose an immediate risk to residents' health and safety. This includes:
- Severe damp and mould that could cause respiratory problems
- Gas leaks and carbon monoxide risks
- Electrical hazards that could cause fire or electrocution
- Structural collapses or serious building failures
- Complete loss of water, heating, or sanitation facilities
The Tragic Case That Changed Everything
Awaab Ishak's death became a national scandal when it emerged that Rochdale Boroughwide Housing had failed to address the dangerous mould in his family's home despite repeated complaints. The coroner's ruling that the mould directly contributed to his death sparked outrage and prompted the government to take decisive action.
'This should never have happened,' said Housing Secretary at the time of the law's announcement. 'No family should have to live in dangerous conditions, and no child should lose their life to something entirely preventable.'
What the New Law Means for Tenants
Under the strengthened regulations:
- Landlords must begin investigating emergency hazards within 24 hours of being notified
- Repairs must be completed promptly or temporary accommodation provided
- Tenants have clear recourse through the Housing Ombudsman if landlords fail to comply
- Local authorities can take enforcement action against non-compliant housing providers
The legislation represents one of the most significant strengthening of tenants' rights in decades and sends a clear message to social housing providers that substandard living conditions will no longer be tolerated.
A Step Toward Healthier Homes
While housing campaigners have welcomed the new rules, many argue that more needs to be done to address the broader issues of housing quality and affordability in England. The tragedy of Awaab Ishak's death has become a catalyst for much-needed reform, but campaigners stress that vigilance and proper enforcement will be crucial to ensuring the law delivers real change for the millions of people living in social housing.
