Awaab’s Law comes into effect on 27 October 2025.
Awaab Ishak was a two-year old living in a one-bedroom flat. He died in December 2020 from a severe respiratory condition. The coroner ruled that this was caused by prolonged exposure to black mould in his home which had “inadequate ventilation and was not equipped for normal day-to-day living activities which led to excess damp and condensation”.
Awaab’s Law is intended to make homes healthier and safer, so that no tenant is ever again left living in the sort of circumstances that caused Awaab’s death.
The Law sets down what social housing landlords must do to protect tenants, including timelines, depending on whether the hazard is ‘significant’ or ‘emergency’.
| Action | Timeline for significant hazard | Timeline for emergency hazard |
|---|---|---|
| Investigation | Within 10 working days of being alerted | Within 24 hours of being altered |
| Complete safety works investigation | Within 5 working days of the end of the investigation | Within 24 hours of the the end of the investigation |
| Summary of findings | Sent to tenant within 3 working days of the end of the investigation | Sent to tenant within 3 working days of the end of the investigation |
| Provide alternative accommodation | If not resolved within 5 working days of the end of the investigation | If not resolved within 24 hours of the end of the investigation |
Other hazards, such as cold, heat, fire and electrical will be added over the next two years.
What we are doing to be ready
We have done a lot of work to prepare for Awaab’s Law as it means faster moving cases than before, our frontline teams being able to identify hazards correctly, and our contractors to modify their approach. It is also important that we keep you informed in clear language, ensure accessibility and act with empathy.
How you can help
Our website page on damp and mould can be found here Damp and mould – Wandle Housing Association
This may help you identify which type of mould you have in your home, which can help us respond as effectively as possible.