The Dampologists
Awaab’s Law: What You Need to Know
What Is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law is a new law in England designed to make sure damp, mould, and other serious housing problems are dealt with quickly and properly, especially in social housing.
It’s named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who tragically died in 2020 due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home. The law aims to make sure this never happens again.
Awaab’s Law will come into effect in October 2025. At first, it focuses on damp, mould, and emergency hazards, but by 2026–2027 it will expand to cover more housing issues under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

What Does Awaab’s Law Require?
Under this new law, social landlords must follow strict timeframes for:
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Investigating reports of damp, mould, or hazards
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Starting and completing repairs within a reasonable period
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Keeping clear records of inspections, communication, and actions taken
If a property cannot be made safe quickly, landlords may need to provide temporary accommodation until the issue is resolved.
What It Means for Social Landlords
Social landlords (such as housing associations and councils) now have a legal duty to:
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Investigate damp or mould complaints promptly
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Fix emergency hazards within 24 hours
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Begin repairs within days, not weeks
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Keep evidence of all actions taken
Failing to act on damp and mould could now lead to legal action, fines, and reputational damage.
What It Means for Private Landlords
Although Awaab’s Law first applies to social housing, the private rented sector is expected to follow similar standards through the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill.
Private landlords are encouraged to:
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Carry out regular damp and mould inspections
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Fix problems quickly to protect tenants and avoid future legal risks
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Keep good records of maintenance and repairs
Proactive landlords who act before problems worsen will not only avoid liabilities but also maintain property value and tenant trust.
Why It’s Important
1. Protects Tenant Health
Damp and mould aren’t just cosmetic problems — they can cause asthma, allergies, and serious respiratory illnesses. Quick action keeps homes safe and families healthy.
2. Reduces Risk for Landlords
Meeting the legal timeframes helps landlords avoid fines, claims, or investigations for failing to act on hazards.
3. Encourages Better Maintenance
The law pushes housing providers to work proactively, preventing problems before they become serious or costly.
How The Dampologists Can Help
At The Dampologists, we provide independent damp and mould surveys that help landlords, housing associations, and homeowners stay compliant with Awaab’s Law.
Our services include:
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Detailed moisture testing and thermal imaging
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Clear, evidence-based reports suitable for compliance and record-keeping
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Expert recommendations to fix the root cause of damp and mould
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Support for both social and private landlords who want to meet or exceed legal requirements
Whether you manage housing or own a rental property, our surveys give you the proof, protection, and practical steps needed to stay compliant and safeguard your tenants’ health.
Learn More
For further information, you can visit:
Why Choose
THE DAMPOLOGISTS?
Unlike contractors, we don’t sell repairs. Our surveys are completely independent, honest, and unbiased. You get clear answers, expert recommendations, and peace of mind — with no hidden agenda.
We’re a Certified Federation of Damp Specialist, which means every survey we carry out meets strict professional standards and industry best practice — so you can trust our findings and recommendations
✔ Independent damp specialists — no repair sales, just honest surveys
✔ Certified Federation of Damp Specialist member
✔ Easy-to-read reports with photos and clear recommendations
✔ Serving homes across Essex, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Suffolk & Norfolk
✔ Save money by knowing exactly what work is needed

