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Awaab’s Law and the Renters' Rights Bill
Oct 04 2024

Awaab’s Law and the Renters' Rights Bill

Awaab’s Law was introduced as part of the Renters’ Rights Bill and aims to enforce stricter standards for safe and secure housing in the private rental sector. This guide outlines key information letting agents need to understand about the law.

Background on Awaab’s Law:

Awaab’s Law was initially introduced in the social housing sector in 2023, after the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home. Although his family complained numerous times about the mould, the landlord failed to resolve the issue. Now, as part of the Renters’ Rights Bill, these regulations are being extended to the private rental sector. The law aims to impose strict deadlines on landlords to address dangerous conditions such as damp and mould, preventing similar tragedies in the future.

Though currently only applicable to social housing, Awaab’s Law will soon cover the private rental sector, making it essential for letting agents to familiarise themselves with its implications.

What is Awaab’s Law?

Awaab’s Law holds landlords accountable for swiftly addressing complaints related to damp, mould, and other housing hazards. The law includes 29 health and safety hazards identified in the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), such as:

  • Damp and mould
  • Extreme cold or heat
  • Asbestos
  • Domestic hygiene, pests, and refuse
  • Sanitation and drainage
  • Falls related to stairs, baths, and uneven surfaces

Timeframes under Awaab’s Law

Social housing landlords must adhere to specific timelines when responding to damp and mould complaints, and letting agents should prepare for similar rules under the Renters’ Rights Bill. These key deadlines include:

  • Investigating complaints within 14 days
  • Providing a written report within 14 days, outlining the problem, next steps, and repair timelines
  • Initiating repairs within 7 days if the hazard poses a health risk
  • Completing emergency repairs within 24 hours
  • Finalising all other repairs within a “reasonable” period, as stipulated by the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985

If repairs are delayed, landlords may need to arrange alternative accommodation for tenants.

Letting agents should maintain comprehensive records of all communications between landlords, tenants, and contractors to ensure compliance.

Awaab’s Law vs. the Decent Homes Standard

The Decent Homes Standard focuses on general property conditions, such as modern facilities and adequate heating systems, but does not explicitly address damp or mould. Awaab’s Law addresses this gap, making sure that rental homes are safe and healthy for tenants by mandating timely repairs for damp and mould issues.

When Will Awaab’s Law Apply to Private Rentals?

Ryan Heaven, an Associate Solicitor at Dutton Gregory, predicts the law could be enacted by January 2025, though the timeline may change.

Letting Agents’ Responsibilities Under Awaab’s Law

Letting agents will play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with Awaab’s Law. Key responsibilities include:

  • Keeping detailed records of all communications between landlords, tenants, and contractors
  • Ensuring landlords meet repair deadlines set out by the law
  • Educating landlords on their legal obligations under Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes Standard
  • Guiding landlords through the new legislation to avoid penalties

By staying informed and proactive, letting agents can help landlords navigate these regulations and ensure they remain compliant with the latest legal standards.

The information in this post is valid to the best of our knowledge on the date of posting. It is advised that you seek independent advice based on your individual circumstances.

T +44 (0)203 488 1488

E: info@ladybirdliving.co.uk

W: https://www.ladybirdliving.co.uk/

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