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Poor housing conditions such as damp, mould, leaks, and unsafe electrics can seriously affect health and wellbeing. For many years, tenants in social housing struggled to get landlords to carry out urgent repairs on time.

This is why Awaab’s Law was introduced.

In this blog, we explain what Awaab’s Law is, what changes apply in 2026, and how it affects housing disrepair claims in England.

Important: This article applies to England only. Awaab’s Law does not currently apply in Wales.

What Is Awaab’s Law?

Awaab’s Law is a new legal duty for social landlords in England, such as councils and housing associations.

It was introduced following the death of Awaab Ishak, a young child who died after prolonged exposure to mould in his home.

The law is designed to make sure landlords:

  • take repair complaints seriously

  • act quickly when homes are unsafe

  • cannot ignore or delay serious housing problems

Awaab’s Law came into force in October 2025, with further changes coming in 2026.

Who Does Awaab’s Law Apply To?

Awaab’s Law currently applies to:

  • Council housing

  • Housing association properties

  • Other social housing providers in England

It does not yet apply to private landlords, although similar rules may come in future reforms.

What Changes Are Coming in 2026?

In 2026, Awaab’s Law will cover more types of hazards and set clear legal deadlines for landlords to carry out repairs.

1. More Hazards Covered

From 2026, landlords will have strict deadlines for a wider range of hazards, including:

These hazards are assessed using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

2. Clear Timeframes for Repairs

Awaab’s Law sets legal maximum timeframes for landlords to act. The old “30-day informal” expectation is now replaced by stricter deadlines for serious hazards.

Hazard Type

Deadline Under Awaab’s Law 2026
Emergency (life-threatening) Must be made safe within 24 hours
Damp/mould & serious health hazards Investigate within 10 working days, repair as soon as possible
Structural, falls, hygiene, cold/heat Urgent hazards usually repaired within 10–14 days
Minor issues Must still be repaired within a reasonable timeframe

Key point: Serious hazards must now be dealt with faster than the old 30-day informal standard.

Landlords must also:

  • keep tenants informed
  • explain what repairs are needed
  • provide realistic timescales

Delays without good reason can lead to legal claims or compensation.

How Does This Affect Housing Disrepair Claims?

Awaab’s Law strengthens housing disrepair claims in England.

Easier to Prove a Claim

Because the law sets clear deadlines, tenants can show when a landlord:

  • failed to act on time
  • ignored reports
  • breached their legal duty

This makes claims stronger and easier to win.

More Accountability for Landlords

If a landlord does not comply, tenants may:

  • take court action
  • claim compensation
  • ask the court to force repairs

Landlords can no longer rely on vague promises or long delays.

Can You Claim Compensation Under Awaab’s Law?

Yes, if a landlord:

  • fails to meet repair deadlines
  • allows unsafe conditions to continue
  • causes harm, stress, or health problems

Each case depends on:

  • the type of disrepair
  • how long it lasted
  • the impact on the tenant

Does Awaab’s Law Apply in Wales?

No. Housing law is devolved, and Awaab’s Law applies only in England.
Wales has its own housing standards and legal processes for disrepair claims.

Why Awaab’s Law Matters

Awaab’s Law is one of the biggest changes to housing law in England in recent years. It:

  • prioritises health and safety

  • gives tenants stronger rights

  • forces faster action from landlords

  • reduces long-term neglect of housing conditions

For tenants in unsafe homes, it offers clear legal protection

Final Thoughts

The 2026 changes under Awaab’s Law make housing disrepair rules in England stricter and easier to enforce.
If you live in social housing and your landlord is not dealing with serious repair issues, Awaab’s Law could help you get repairs done faster and claim compensation if needed.

Whether you are in any city in England, tenants now have stronger legal protections to hold landlords accountable for unsafe conditions. Understanding your rights locally can make a big difference when reporting hazards or making a housing disrepair claim. Residents can take action on housing disrepair claims London and housing disrepair claims Birmingham, based on where they live.

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