The law applies to all four million social rented homes in England and mandates urgent action to fix health hazards such as damp and mould, with strict timeframes for inspection, communication and repair.
The key components of Awaab’s Law are:
- Social landlords must investigate emergency hazards within 24 hours of being notified and make the home safe immediately.
- Significant damp and mould must be inspected within 10 working days, with repairs initiated within five working days if hazards are confirmed. Written findings must be provided to tenants within three working days of inspection.
- Landlords must consider tenant circumstances that increase vulnerability, such as young children, disabilities, or health conditions, and offer alternative accommodation if homes cannot be made safe within the required timeframe.
RCPCH Officer for Climate Change, Dr Helena Clements, said:
We welcome the introduction of Awaab’s Law as it marks a vital step toward protecting children and young people from the serious health risks posed by unsafe housing. Awaab’s Law will ensure that social landlords act quickly to address hazards like damp and mould, conditions that can have devastating consequences for child health. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, healthy home, and this legislation helps make that a reality.
Clinicians see first-hand how poor housing harms children’s respiratory health, development and overall wellbeing. Our ‘Clean Air, Healthy Childhoods’ report highlighted the vital role health professionals play in recognising environmental risks and advocating for change. That’s why we have called for Awaab’s Law to be expanded to cover private renters in England, and for its introduction and extension across Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe home.