Condensation and Mould: Why Landlords Can’t Afford to Ignore Awaab’s Law

Why this matters now

Condensation and mould have always been a headache for landlords.
They bring costly repairs, tenant complaints, and — most importantly — serious health risks.

With Awaab’s Law coming into force, the stakes have changed.
This is no longer just a maintenance issue — it’s a legal responsibility.

What is Awaab’s Law?

Awaab’s Law was introduced after the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s home.

• From 27 October 2025, it applies to social landlords

• The government has made it clear that the private rented sector will follow, through the upcoming Decent Homes Standard

This means:

• Emergency hazards must be fixed within 24 hours

• Other issues must be investigated within 14 days

• Repairs must then be carried out within strict deadlines

Doing nothing is no longer an option.

The risks for landlords

Mould is classed as a Category 1 health hazard, linked to asthma, respiratory illness, and allergies.

For landlords, the risks include:

• Expensive repairs to plaster, timber, and décor

• Legal claims under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act

• Enforcement action under the Environmental Protection Act

• Serious reputational damage if tenants escalate complaints

Practical prevention steps

You can’t control every tenant’s lifestyle, but you can prove you’ve done everything possible to protect your property and your tenants.

• Ventilation – Check extractor fans, trickle vents, and bathroom/kitchen systems

• Heating & insulation – Provide systems that allow affordable warmth and reduce cold spots

• Tenant guidance – Explain simple steps (venting after cooking, drying clothes sensibly, using extractors). Keep a record of advice given

• Regular inspections – Visit, document, and respond quickly to early signs of damp

• Smart monitoring – Consider modern systems that track humidity and flag risks early

Important: Courts won’t accept “tenant behaviour” as an excuse — the onus is on landlords.

The cost of inaction

A patch of mould today can mean plaster replacement, structural repairs, or legal claims tomorrow.

Investing in prevention is far cheaper — and safer — than facing fines, claims, or prolonged disputes.

Next Step for Landlords

Stay proactive.
Regular checks, clear communication with tenants, and preventative measures will protect both your tenants’ health and your long-term investment.

If you’d like guidance on preparing your property for these new standards, get in touch with us at Personal Economy Lettings — we’ll help you stay compliant and in control.