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Awaab's Law | Damp, condensation, and mould | Birmingham City Council

Awaab's Law

Awaab’s Law was created to protect tenants from serious health risks like damp and mould. It follows the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020, caused by prolonged exposure to mould in social housing.

Learn more about Awaab’s Law

What Awaab’s Law means for tenants

The law initially focuses on damp and mould from October 2025, and will expand to cover other hazards by 2027.

Awaab’s Law introduces strict timeframes for social landlords to investigate and fix serious hazards in tenants’ homes. These requirements are part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023.

Landlords must:

  • fix emergency hazards (for example, severe damp, mould, or major leaks) within 24 hours
  • investigate significant risks within 10 working days
  • start repairs within 5 working days if a problem is confirmed
  • provide a written summary of the investigation within 3 working days if the hazard cannot be made safe or resolved
  • meet all deadlines, or risk legal action from tenants

Our commitment

We are committed to meeting the standards set by Awaab’s Law. This includes:

  • improving how we respond to reports of damp and mould
  • raising awareness among tenants
  • making it easier for you to report problems

We aim to act fast, communicate clearly, and keep your home safe.

Your role as a tenant

You play a key role in maintaining a safe home. If you spot signs of damp or mould:


Page last updated: 13 November 2025

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