Awaab’s Law 2025: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know
Awaab’s Law
In 2025, a landmark change in housing legislation known as Awaab’s Law has come into effect, following growing concerns over tenant safety and landlord accountability. This new law was introduced in response to the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his social housing flat in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. His death brought national attention to the substandard conditions in some rental properties and highlighted systemic failures in landlord responsibilities.
Awaab’s Law 2025 is designed to ensure that both private and social landlords respond swiftly to health hazards within rental properties. As this legislation rolls out, it is essential for both tenants and landlords to understand what it entails and how it affects existing legal frameworks, such as the section 21 eviction notice and Section 8 notice grounds.
What is Awaab’s Law 2025?
Awaab’s Law requires landlords to investigate and fix reported hazards within set timeframes. If a tenant reports issues like mould, damp, or any serious health risk, the landlord must carry out an inspection within 14 days. If the issue is confirmed as a health risk, the landlord must begin repairs within 7 days, and complete them within 21 days where possible.
Failure to comply can result in penalties, legal action, or restrictions on serving a section 21 eviction. The law covers both private landlords and housing associations, holding them to the same standards when it comes to providing safe living conditions.
Why Was Awaab’s Law Introduced?
Awaab Ishak’s case highlighted a devastating reality: many tenants, especially in social housing, face delays or dismissals when reporting dangerous living conditions. Awaab’s family made repeated complaints about mould, which went unaddressed. His death sparked public outrage and urgent calls for legislative change.
The government responded with this legislation to ensure that no other child or adult has to suffer due to negligent housing conditions. The law sends a clear message that tenants have a right to live in safe, healthy environments, and that landlords have a duty to act.
Responsibilities for Landlords Under Awaab’s Law
For those wondering what is now legal for landlords, Awaab’s Law introduces stricter responsibilities. Landlords must:
- Respond to tenant complaints about hazards promptly.
- Investigate the reported issue within 14 days.
- Start remedial work within 7 days if a hazard is confirmed.
- Complete repairs within 21 days or communicate clearly about delays.
Landlords who fail to comply may be penalised and may lose the ability to issue a Section 21 eviction notice unless they resolve the identified hazard.
This change urges landlords to be proactive and maintain their properties to avoid legal complications and uphold tenant rights.
How Awaab’s Law Affects Section 21 Eviction Notices
Section 21 eviction, also known as the “no-fault eviction,” allows landlords to regain possession of their property without providing a reason. However, under Awaab’s Law, a landlord cannot serve a Section 21 eviction notice if there are outstanding complaints about health hazards that have not been addressed.
This is a significant shift. It means that tenants can report unsafe conditions without fear of retaliation through eviction. For landlords, it stresses the importance of staying compliant with housing health and safety regulations.
Section 8 Notice Grounds and Awaab’s Law
Unlike Section 21, a Section 8 notice is served when a tenant has breached the tenancy agreement, such as failing to pay rent or causing damage. The notice must specify the legal grounds for eviction.
Awaab’s Law does not change the core principles of section 8 notice grounds, but landlords must be cautious. If a tenant has reported a hazard and the landlord hasn’t addressed it, using Section 8 for eviction could be challenged, particularly if it seems retaliatory.
Therefore, landlords must ensure that all health concerns are fully resolved before initiating the eviction process.
What Tenants Should Know
Tenants now have greater protection and clearer channels to report unsafe conditions. Under Awaab’s Law, if you notice serious mould, damp, or any other health hazard:
- Report the issue to your landlord in writing.
- Allow them 14 days to investigate.
- If repairs are not started within 7 days after the hazard is confirmed, you may contact your local authority.
This empowers tenants to take action and prevents landlords from using Section 21 eviction as a tool for retaliation.
If you’re facing issues like this and feel overwhelmed, reaching out to an eviction specialist near me can provide guidance. Whether you are a tenant fearing unfair eviction or a landlord needing to comply with the new rules, eviction specialists can help navigate the complex legal landscape.
Impact on Landlord Practices
Many landlords are now reassessing how they handle maintenance requests. It is not only about legality but also about long-term asset protection. Ignoring issues like damp and mould can lead to property damage, tenant turnover, and legal battles.
For those new to property management or unsure how to comply with the new law, first 4 landlord advice services offer valuable guidance on property standards, legal responsibilities, and tenant communication.
Additionally, landlords should consider working with tenant eviction specialists or legal advisors who understand both eviction procedures and the requirements under Awaab’s Law. This ensures that any step taken is fully compliant and avoids costly mistakes.
Evicting a Tenant in 2025: A Changed Process
Evicting a tenant is still legally possible under both Section 8 and Section 21, but Awaab’s Law introduces safeguards to prevent abuse. For instance:
- A valid gas safety certificate and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must still be provided.
- Deposits must be properly protected.
- Most importantly, any reported health hazards must be addressed before eviction.
Failure to meet these standards may result in the dismissal of eviction proceedings. For landlords unfamiliar with the intricacies of the law, seeking help from an eviction specialist UK is highly advisable.
Government Oversight and Enforcement
Local authorities now have more power to enforce housing standards. Under Awaab’s Law, councils can:
- Inspect properties following tenant complaints.
- Issue improvement notices.
- Impose fines or commence legal proceedings against non-compliant landlords.
This means that landlords must maintain records of maintenance activities and communication with tenants, as evidence of compliance.
The Role of Eviction Specialists in 2025
With tighter regulations and tenant protections, the role of eviction specialists has become more crucial. These professionals help:
- Ensure landlords are compliant before issuing notices.
- Advise tenants on their rights and how to respond to unlawful evictions.
- Represent clients in legal proceedings related to evictions or housing conditions.
Searching for an eviction specialist near me can provide localised support tailored to regional council practices and landlord-tenant dynamics.
Final Thoughts
Awaab’s Law is a vital and overdue reform in UK housing legislation. It brings tenant health and safety to the forefront, demanding that landlords uphold their legal and moral responsibilities.
While this law may add additional pressure on landlords, it also provides a clear framework for maintaining standards, reducing disputes, and improving tenant relationships.
For tenants, this is a moment of empowerment—a reminder that your voice matters and your living conditions should never compromise your well-being.
If you’re unsure about your rights as a tenant or your responsibilities as a landlord under Awaab’s Law, don’t wait. Speak to a housing advisor or get help from first 4 landlord advice today to ensure you’re fully informed and protected.