CIH responds to government statement on Awaab's Law

The government has published an update on its plans to "clamp down" on damp, mould and other hazards in social homes through the implementation of Awaab's Law.

In a statement published earlier today, deputy prime minister Angela Rayner confirmed Awaab's Law will come into effect for social landlords in October this year, before expanding to include a range of other hazards in 2026.

The proposed phasing is as follows:

• 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;
• From the same point in time, they will also have to address all emergency repairs 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, with the hazards in this stage expected to 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 HHSRS (excluding overcrowding).

'An important milestone'

Responding to the statement, CIH's interim director of policy, communications and external affairs, Rachael Williamson, said: "The introduction of Awaab’s Law is a significant step toward ensuring that all social housing residents live in safe, healthy homes. We recognise the tireless efforts of Awaab Ishak’s family in bringing about this change, and today’s announcement marks an important milestone in delivering safer, higher-quality housing.

"It is right that the government focuses on tackling the most serious and prevalent hazards first, starting with damp and mould, and taking an evidence-based approach to phasing in further measures. A phased implementation will provide social landlords with the time and clarity they need to embed these new responsibilities effectively, ensuring that the most urgent risks are addressed."

She added: "We welcome the commitment to ensure that tenants and landlords receive appropriate guidance and support to implement these changes successfully. We look forward to working with the government and the wider housing sector to ensure that these new requirements are practical, deliverable, and lead to real improvements in resident safety and housing quality.

"As the deputy prime minister highlights, strengthening regulation and professional standards is essential — but so is rebuilding trust between landlords and tenants. Every resident should feel safe, heard, and respected in their home.”

The government's announcement comes following the conclusion of the Awaab's Law consultation in spring last year, into which CIH and its members fed.