Update: Awaab’s Law
Awaab’s Law Comes Into Force: What It Means for Tenant
On 27 October 2025, Awaab’s Law will officially come into force across England. It marks a major shift in housing regulation for social landlords. We referred to it here in relation to Decent Homes.
Key Requirements Under Awaab’s Law
The law introduces strict timeframes for social landlords to respond to complaints about health hazards such as damp and mould:
These requirements apply to all social housing providers, including local authorities and housing associations. The law also mandates clear communication with tenants and record-keeping to ensure accountability.
Enforcement and Penalties
Local councils and the Regulator of Social Housing have been given enhanced powers to enforce compliance. Landlords who fail to meet the deadlines may face fines, legal action, or restrictions on future funding. Tenants can also seek redress through the Housing Ombudsman.
Implications for Tenants and Landlords
For tenants, Awaab’s Law offers stronger legal backing when dealing with unsafe living conditions. It shifts the burden of proof away from tenants and places clear obligations on landlords to act swiftly. For landlords, it introduces new administrative and operational pressures, requiring better systems for tracking complaints and coordinating repairs.
Public Awareness and Support
The government has launched a public awareness campaign to inform tenants of their rights under the new law. Housing charities and tenant advocacy groups have welcomed the changes, though some warn that enforcement will depend heavily on local authority resources.
Awaab’s Law is a landmark moment in UK housing policy and will hopefully prioritise tenant safety. Obviously to succeed on its aims, there will be a need for legal enforcement as well as cultural change within the housing sector.