Awaab’s Law is a new law that comes into force on 27 October 2025. The legislation requires social landlords to fix reported damp and mould hazards and emergency hazards within strict timeframes.
The law was introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who lived in a damp and mouldy flat in Rochdale. A coroner found that Awaab Ishak died from respiratory issues caused by prolonged exposure to black mould in his home.
What will Awaab’s Law do?
Awaab’s Law will strengthen residents’ rights, meaning social landlords must investigate all emergency hazards within 24 hours and all damp and mould hazards within 10 working days. Landlords will have to share a written summary of the findings and undertake safety work within strict timeframes. If repairs cannot be completed within the timescale, then suitable alternative accommodation must be provided.
In 2026, the law will be extended to include the following hazards where they present a significant risk of harm:
- excess cold and excess heat
- falls associated with baths etc., on level surfaces, on stairs and between levels
- structural collapse, and explosions
- fire, and electrical hazards
- domestic and personal hygiene and food safety
In 2027, regulations will be extended to cover all remaining hazards (apart from overcrowding) where they present a significant risk of harm.
What are the dangers of living with damp and mould?
Living with damp and mould is harmful to your health, it can cause:
- Respiratory issues – including damage to your airways and lungs, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, airway infections and asthma
- Allergic symptoms – watery eyes, running nose, sneezing and itching
- Other health issues – damage to your immune system, headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue syndrome
- Mental health effects – anxiety, frustration and social isolation
What to do if you discover mould or damp in your property
- Firstly, you should report any issues to your private or social landlord.
- If you need to escalate the issue, you can contact the Council’s Environmental Health team via email environmentalhealth@knowsley.gov.ukor call 0151 443 4712.
- For helpful advice about preventing damp and mould in your home view our Mouldy Matters video.
Further advice and support for healthy homes
Residents can find a wide range of advice and support for keeping their homes healthy, including against damp and mould, here.
Healthy Homes events
Knowsley Council is hosting a health homes event on Wednesday 19 November at Volair Huyton, Longview Drive, Huyton, L36 6EG, from 10am – 12pm.
At the event, residents will be able access to:
- Housing – Advice on housing conditions, tenancy issues, and how to report problems like damp and mould.
- Energy – Learn how to reduce energy bills, access grants or schemes for heating improvements, and stay warm efficiently.
- Digital inclusion – Support with getting online, accessing digital services, and improving digital skills.
- Health – Information on staying physically and mentally healthy during colder months, including local health services and wellbeing support.
- Warm homes – Guidance on how to make your home more energy-efficient and comfortable.
Further information on Awaab’s Law is available here.