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Awaab’s Law: what this means for you as a landlord or contractor

Published Nov 25, 2025

Awaab’s Law came into force on 27 October 2025, and it’s already reshaping how social landlords and contractors manage housing conditions across England. The law brings in strict, legally binding timescales to make sure serious hazards - especially damp, mould, and emergency risks - are dealt with quickly and effectively.

If you’re a landlord, contractor, or part of a housing safety team, these new requirements will directly impact how you work, how you manage repairs, and how you communicate with tenants.

Here’s what the law now expects from you:

  • Investigate significant damp and mould concerns within ten working days of being made aware

  • Make homes safe within five working days when an investigation confirms a serious risk

  • Provide a written report to tenants within three working days, explaining what you found and what happens next

  • Complete emergency repairs within 24 hours where there is immediate danger

  • Offer temporary alternative accommodation when a home cannot be made safe within the legal deadlines

These aren’t just best-practice recommendations - they are legal duties. Non-compliance can lead to enforcement action, compensation claims, reputational damage, and significant financial consequences.

Useful resources

We’ve created a Awaab’s Law Video Toolbox Talk - explaining the key duties and timescales in a clear, accessible way.

Click here to watch the toolbox talk video.

Our one-day HHSRS course is designed to give you the knowledge and tools to avoid compliance pitfalls and stay confident in your housing safety decisions.

Click here to find out more and book your spot on one of our courses.

A quick breakdown of the requirements

Topic

Key highlights

Awaab’s Law (Phase 1)

24-hour emergency response; damp and mould investigations within 10 days; tenant summary within three days; fix within five days (or 12-week max).

Rollout timeline

2025: Damp, mould, emergencies

2026: Additional hazards

2027: All HHSRS hazards (except overcrowding).

Enforcement

Tenants can pursue legal action; Housing Ombudsman and Regulator have strengthened enforcement powers.

Action steps

Train staff, update procedures, put tracking systems in place, prepare for phased rollout