The government has confirmed it will extend Awaab's Law to the private rented sector under the Renters Rights Act 2025. The extension will require private landlords to investigate damp and mould within 14 days and carry out emergency repairs within 24 hours. The commencement date has not yet been set.
Awaab's Law came into force for social housing landlords on 27 October 2024. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 confirmed that the same requirements will be extended to the private rented sector, though the commencement date is yet to be set by statutory instrument.
Under the proposed framework, private landlords will be required to investigate reports of damp and mould within 14 calendar days, provide a written summary within three days of completing the investigation, and begin repair works within seven days where a hazard is confirmed. Emergency hazards will require investigation within 24 hours.
Private landlords should begin establishing procedures that would meet these requirements in advance of the formal commencement date.
Action required
Establish a clear process for recording and responding to hazard reports from tenants. Aim to investigate damp and mould reports within 14 days and treat emergency hazards within 24 hours as a matter of best practice now, ahead of the formal extension.
Effective
2026
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