Updated 2 November 2026 · By Diego Gómez

Damp and mould in a rented home: your rights and Awaab's Law

What Awaab's Law means for social housing tenants in England, the timescales landlords must meet for damp and mould, and what private renters can do.

Awaab's Law is named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old who died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to mould in his family's social housing flat in Rochdale.

What it requires (social housing in England)

Since 27 October 2025, social landlords (councils and housing associations) must:

  • Investigate a potential damp and mould hazard within 10 working days of becoming aware of it.
  • Complete safety works for a significant damp and mould hazard within 5 working days of identifying it, or offer suitable alternative accommodation at no cost.
  • Deal with emergency hazards within 24 hours.

Private renters

Awaab's Law does not yet cover private rented homes. The Renters' Rights legislation includes powers to extend it to the private sector, but that is not expected before 2027. Private landlords already have duties to keep homes free of serious hazards, and your local council's environmental health team can inspect.

What to do

  1. Report the problem to your landlord in writing, with photos and dates.
  2. Keep records of every reply.
  3. Reduce the moisture you can control: ventilation, extractor fans, not drying laundry in living areas, and a dehumidifier if needed (it doesn't replace the landlord's repairs).
  4. If nothing happens, contact your council or Shelter for advice.

This is general information, not legal advice. Source: Shelter England.

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FAQs

Does Awaab's Law apply in Scotland or Wales?

No. Awaab's Law applies to social housing in England. Scotland and Wales have their own housing standards.

Can my landlord blame me for condensation?

Everyday living creates moisture, and landlords still have duties around ventilation, insulation and repairs. Keep a record of what you do to ventilate and heat the home.

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