In a landmark move for tenant rights, the UK government has unveiled "Awaab's Law" - powerful new legislation that will force landlords to address dangerous mould and damp within strict time limits.
The long-awaited reforms come two years after the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who developed a fatal respiratory condition from prolonged exposure to mould in his family's Rochdale flat.
What Awaab's Law Means for Tenants
Under the new legislation, social housing landlords will face legally binding requirements to:
- Investigate hazardous damp and mould within 14 days
- Begin repair works within a further 7 days
- Complete all necessary repairs within specified timeframes
Housing Secretary Michael Gove described the measures as delivering on a "solemn promise" to Awaab's family, stating: "Today is a watershed moment for those living in social housing. For too long, tenants have been ignored and looked down upon."
The Human Cost of Housing Neglect
The legislation is named in memory of Awaab Ishak, who died in December 2020 just days after his second birthday. A coroner ruled that the toddler's death was "directly caused" by extensive mould in the flat managed by Rochdale Boroughwide Housing.
His father, Faisal Abdullah, had repeatedly complained about the dangerous conditions, but the housing association failed to take appropriate action.
Broader Rental Reforms
Awaab's Law forms part of the wider Social Housing Regulation Act, which represents the biggest shake-up of social housing in a decade. The reforms include:
- Strengthened powers for the Regulator of Social Housing
- Enhanced tenant rights and protections
- Stricter enforcement against negligent landlords
- Regular inspections of larger landlords
The government is now consulting on the specific timeframes for repairs, with the new requirements expected to come into force later this year.
This represents a significant victory for housing campaigners and a crucial step toward ensuring no family endures the preventable tragedy that befell Awaab Ishak and his parents.
