Update on Awaab’s Law – Improving the quality of social housing

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The Government has confirmed the timeline for the implementation of Awaab’s Law in the social rented sector, with the first set of changes to be introduced in October of this year.  

The following measures will be introduced in a phased approach:  

  • From October 2025, social landlords will be required to address damp and mould hazards that present a significant risk of harm to tenants, within fixed timescales. Timescales were put forward in the consultation but are still to be confirmed. They will also have to address all emergency repairs, whether they relate to damp and mould or any other hazard, as soon as possible and within no longer than 24 hours. 
  • In 2026, requirements will expand to apply to a wider range of hazards beyond damp and mould. We expect additional hazards will include excess cold and excess heat; falls; structural collapse; fire, electrical and explosions; and hygiene hazards. 
  • In 2027, the requirements of Awaab’s Law will expand to apply to the remaining hazards as defined by the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), excluding overcrowding. The full list of hazards can be found in schedule 1 of  the HHSRS (England) Regulations 2005. 

Chief Executive of the NHC, Tracy Harrison, responded to the Government statement saying:

“We welcome the Government’s commitment to providing tenants and landlords with the necessary guidance to implement these important changes. We all share the same commitment to resident safety and housing quality. We will work with the government and the housing sector to make sure these new requirements are practical and achievable.” 

Next steps 

We’re waiting for the Government’s full response to the 2024 consultation, alongside the precise timings of each phase and further detail on guidance to support implementation. 

The NHC will work with our members and the Government to contribute to the implementation of the measures.  

The Government’s announcement comes following the conclusion of the Awaab’s Law consultation last year which the NHC responded to with input from our members.