New legislation, designed to protect renters from hazards in their homes, was passed in July 2023 and is due to come in to effect this month. It’s known as Awaab’s law.
From 27 October, social landlords in England will be forced to fix damp and mould within strict timescales. Hazards like damp and mould must be inspected within 10 working days, and made safe within five, after the inspection.
More serious issues such as gas leaks, broken boilers – or when damp or mould are affecting a tenant’s health – will need to be looked at within 24 hours.
If social landlords can’t meet those deadlines, they will be obliged to offer alternative accommodation. And if they fail, tenants can take legal action against for breach of contract. They can also make a claim via a complaints procedure.
But for now, this legislation only applies to the social rented sector (such as council housing or homes rented from housing associations) – and not the 4.6 million households in England who rent privately – like Kyle and his family.
Though the government says it will be extended to the private rented sector, it has not yet set a date.
And so, while some have welcomed Awaab’s law, other campaigners ask how effective it really will be, given the limitations.