Damp, Mould, and Tenant Safety: A Housing Challenge That Demands Action

Damp and mould are far more than maintenance issues; they are critical health risks that can have devastating consequences.

Exposure to mould can exacerbate asthma, trigger severe allergies, and lead to long-term respiratory problems. For vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, the risks are even higher.

Beyond the physical toll, living in damp and mouldy conditions can severely impact mental well-being, causing stress, anxiety, and a diminished quality of life. 

The tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in December 2020, linked to mould exposure in his family’s social housing, was a wake-up call for the sector. It underlined the real-life consequences of inaction and neglect.

In response, the UK government introduced Awaab’s Law as part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, setting out a framework to protect tenants and ensure safe living conditions. 

What is Awaab’s Law? 

Awaab’s Law creates enforceable standards for dealing with health hazards in social housing, including damp and mould. These standards introduce clear timeframes to ensure timely responses: 

Investigation: Reports of damp or mould must be investigated within 14 days. 

Repair Initiation: Any necessary repair work must start within 7 days after investigation. 

Emergency Response: For urgent health or safety risks, action must be taken within 24 hours. 

The law also incorporates these standards into tenancy agreements, giving tenants legal grounds to hold landlords accountable. But at its heart, Awaab’s Law is about much more than compliance—it’s about safeguarding lives and restoring dignity to tenants who have endured unsafe living conditions for too long. 

Enhancing Tenant Safety: Moving Beyond Compliance 

To meet the requirements of Awaab’s Law and ensure tenant safety, housing providers must adopt proactive and transparent approaches. This includes: 

• Regular Inspections: Implementing scheduled checks to identify potential damp and mould issues before they escalate. 

• Tenant Education: Helping residents recognise early signs of damp and mould and encouraging them to report concerns promptly. 

• Transparent Processes: Keeping tenants informed at every stage—from reporting issues to resolution timelines—fosters trust and accountability. 

• Proactive Monitoring: Using IoT sensors to track environmental conditions such as humidity and moisture, enabling early intervention. 

• Detailed Documentation: Maintaining thorough records of reports, actions taken, and outcomes to ensure compliance and facilitate audits. 

These measures not only address legal requirements but also demonstrate a genuine commitment to tenant well-being. 

The Role of Technology in Protecting Tenants 

Technology is an essential enabler in the fight against damp and mould. From user-friendly reporting systems to advanced monitoring tools, digital solutions provide housing associations with the ability to respond more effectively. 

Empowering Tenants Through Technology 

Tenants should feel empowered to report issues confidently and easily. Platforms that allow detailed reporting—complete with photos, videos, and descriptions—can improve the accuracy of reports and speed up resolutions. Transparency tools, such as dashboards that let tenants track the status of their cases, also build trust and ensure accountability. 

Streamlining Workflows 

Automation can significantly enhance how housing providers handle reports of damp and mould. Systems that categorise and prioritise issues based on health risks ensure that urgent cases receive immediate attention. This not only speeds up resolutions but also allocates resources more effectively. 

Preventative Monitoring 

IoT sensors can monitor properties for signs of damp and mould long before they become visible. By tracking humidity, temperature, and moisture levels, these tools enable housing associations to act early, preventing health risks and costly repairs. 

Data-Driven Insights 

Analytics tools can identify trends and help housing associations improve service delivery over time. Metrics such as resolution times, tenant satisfaction scores, and compliance rates provide actionable insights that lead to better decision-making and tenant outcomes. 

Why a Tenant-Centred Approach is Key 

Awaab’s Law isn’t just a regulatory framework—it’s a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect tenants. By prioritising health, safety, and transparency, housing associations can rebuild trust and create safer homes. 

This goes beyond meeting deadlines; it’s about fostering environments where tenants feel valued, respected, and safe. When we centre our efforts around tenants’ needs, we not only comply with regulations but also contribute to stronger, healthier communities. 

A Call to Action for Housing Providers 

The tragic circumstances that led to Awaab’s Law must never be repeated. This is an opportunity for the housing sector to lead with compassion, adopt forward-thinking practices, and use innovative tools to protect tenants. 

The journey to safer housing begins with accountability, but it flourishes through collaboration, education, and the thoughtful use of technology. Together, we can ensure that every home is a safe haven—not just for today but for generations to come. 

#HousingSafety #AwabsLaw #TenantWellbeing #SocialHousing #