Awaab's Law Readiness Checker
From October 2026, Awaab's Law gives private landlords 14 days to investigate reported damp or mould and 7 days to start repairs — 24 hours if the risk is imminent. Check where you stand in 60 seconds.
139
days until it applies to the PRS
Has a tenant reported damp or mould to you?
A report can be by any means — message, email, phone, or in person. The date it was made starts the Awaab's Law clock.
Awaab's Law — Frequently Asked Questions
When does Awaab's Law apply to private landlords?
Awaab's Law applied to social housing first. From October 2026 it extends to the private rented sector through the Renters' Rights Act 2025. From that date, private landlords must meet the same legally binding timescales for investigating and fixing damp and mould.
What are the timescales?
Investigate a reported hazard within 14 days and give the tenant a written summary of findings. Begin repairs within 7 days of completing the investigation. Where the hazard is an imminent risk to health or safety, investigate and make it safe within 24 hours.
What's the penalty for missing the deadlines?
Missing a timescale is an enforceable breach of the tenancy. Local authorities can issue civil penalties — indicatively from around £7,000 for an initial breach up to £40,000 for serious cases — and tenants can pursue compensation through the courts.
What counts as an 'imminent risk'?
An imminent risk is a hazard likely to cause serious harm if not addressed immediately — for example, significant mould in a home occupied by a young child, an elderly person, or someone with a respiratory condition. These trigger the 24-hour deadline rather than the 14-day one.