A recent survey by the End Fuel Poverty Coalition reveals that one in five private renters report living in poor housing conditions, including issues such as mould and dampness. In response, tenant groups are calling on the government to confirm when Awaab’s Law will be extended to the private rented sector (PRS), emphasising the need for legal duties on landlords to address hazardous housing promptly. This development is significant for landlords as it signals forthcoming regulatory changes and highlights the importance of maintaining property standards.

Survey Highlights Widespread Housing Issues in the Private Rented Sector

The End Fuel Poverty Coalition’s survey found that 26% of adults experienced mould in their homes either frequently or occasionally over the past year. Additionally, 14% of respondents reported living in cold, damp conditions, with higher rates among those with health issues—22% for people with lung conditions and 25% for those with mental health conditions. The data underlines the disproportionate impact of poor housing on vulnerable groups and confirms that housing tenure is a key factor, with one in five private renters affected.

The Call for a Clear Implementation Date for Awaab’s Law

Awaab’s Law, which aims to impose stricter legal obligations on landlords to address hazards such as mould within a defined timeframe, is expected to come into force during phase three of the Building Safety Act in 2027. However, the government has yet to confirm when the law will apply specifically to the PRS. Tom Darling, director of the Renters’ Reform Coalition, emphasised the urgency of this issue: “It’s shocking that so many people are living in homes that put their life at risk, and totally unacceptable that many landlords are profiting from them.” He urged the government to set a date for applying Awaab’s Law to private rented homes, mirroring recent commitments for social housing tenants.

For landlords, this highlights the increasing regulatory focus on property conditions and the expectation to act swiftly on health and safety concerns. Establishing clear compliance processes now will help landlords prepare for the forthcoming legal duties and avoid potential penalties.

Long-Term Solutions Needed Beyond Short-Term Support

The End Fuel Poverty Coalition also called on the government to launch its delayed Warm Homes Plan, which aims to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs for homeowners and renters alike. The plan includes grants for heat pumps and support targeted at low-income households. The coalition stresses that addressing housing quality and energy affordability together is essential to prevent cold and damp homes from becoming a persistent public health issue.

Landlords should be aware that energy efficiency improvements and compliance with new housing standards will increasingly form part of their operational responsibilities. Proactively investing in energy-saving measures where commercially viable can enhance tenant satisfaction and property value.

Commercial Reality Check for Landlords

While the survey and calls for reform highlight serious issues, it is important to recognise that the majority of private rented homes in the UK are decent, safe, and professionally managed. Most landlords maintain their properties to protect their income streams and asset values. The current policy debate tends to focus on a minority of poor performers rather than the sector as a whole.

Landlords are advised to differentiate their portfolios by documenting property condition, maintenance history, and tenant communications thoroughly. Demonstrating professionalism and consistent standards will become increasingly important as regulatory scrutiny intensifies.

Practical Steps for Landlords Moving Forward

To prepare for evolving regulations such as Awaab’s Law, landlords should:

• Document property condition and maintenance: Keep detailed records to evidence compliance and professionalism.
• Invest strategically: Focus on upgrades that add commercial value and meet tenant demand rather than blanket improvements driven by political pressure.
• Plan compliance operationally: Refine systems and response times to ensure that addressing hazards is efficient, repeatable, and cost-controlled.

These measures will help landlords manage risks and maintain good tenant relationships in a changing regulatory environment.

Looking Ahead: TLA’s Trusted Partners Hub Launch

The Landlord Association (TLA) is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026. This platform will feature verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. Legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers are invited to register their interest to join the hub. This initiative aims to help landlords access reliable services and strengthen professional standards across the sector.

Landlords interested in becoming a TLA Trusted Partner can find more information and register their interest at the Landlord Association website.

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This update underscores the growing importance of compliance with housing standards and energy efficiency in the private rented sector. Landlords who proactively manage property conditions and prepare for forthcoming regulations like Awaab’s Law will be better positioned to meet tenant expectations and regulatory requirements.