RENTERS RIGHTS ACT AND AWAAB’S LAW FOR PRIVATE LANDLORDS: WHAT THIS MEANS AND HOW TO PREPARE
Introduction: A New Era of Landlord Accountability
Awaab’s Law marks a major shift in how landlords must deal with damp, mould, and housing disrepair.
Brought in after the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, the law sets strict deadlines for investigating and fixing hazards in rental homes.
While the first phase applies to social housing from 27 October 2025, the Government has confirmed that Awaab’s Law will soon extend to private landlords under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
What Is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law was introduced through the Social Housing (Regulation) Act to ensure no tenant is left living in unsafe conditions caused by damp or mould.
Under the new rules, landlords must:
- Investigate reported damp, mould, or leaks within a fixed number of days
- Complete repairs within legally defined timeframes
- Communicate clearly with tenants throughout the process
- Keep evidence of inspections, actions, and completion
These obligations will be legally enforceable and monitored by regulators and local authorities.
When Will Awaab’s Law Apply to Private Landlords?
The Government intends to extend Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector (PRS) through the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, which received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025.
There’s no confirmed commencement date yet for private landlords, but implementation is expected from 2026 onwards, following the social housing rollout.
Expected timeline: 2026 – 2027 (subject to secondary legislation)
This means landlords should start preparing now for compliance — inspections, record-keeping, and proactive repairs will soon be mandatory, not optional.
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and the Bigger Picture
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is transforming the private rented sector. It:
- Abolishes Section 21 “no-fault” evictions
- Introduces stronger repair and property standards
- Creates a new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman
- Lays the legal foundation for Awaab’s Law to apply to private landlords
Implementation will take place in phases, beginning in early 2026.
How Private Landlords Can Prepare Now
Even before Awaab’s Law takes effect, following its principles now helps you stay ahead and protect your properties.
Practical steps to take immediately
- Inspect regularly – Check for damp and mould during tenancy check-ins, renewals, and void periods.
- Respond quickly – Acknowledge reports within 48 hours and act swiftly.
- Keep records – Log all tenant reports, inspection notes, photos, and invoices.
- Communicate clearly – Keep tenants updated in writing about next steps and repair timelines.
- Use qualified professionals – Persistent damp or structural problems require certified contractors.
- Update tenancy agreements – Make sure repair clauses reflect current law and guidance.
Risks of Non-Compliance
Once Awaab’s Law applies to the PRS, landlords who fail to comply could face:
- Fines or enforcement action by local authorities
- Compensation claims from tenants
- Banning orders for serious or repeated breaches
- Reputational damage and increased regulatory scrutiny
Being proactive now reduces your risk later and demonstrates professionalism to tenants and regulators.
How The Tenancy Expert Can Help
At The Tenancy Expert, we offer free guidance, templates, and tools to help landlords and agents stay compliant with evolving housing law and best practice.
Our Toolkit includes:
- Inspection checklists and evidence logs
- Template letters for tenant communication
- Repair action plan templates
- Guidance on timeframes and legal duties
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