The government has confirmed that tenants in the private rented sector (PRS) will be able to challenge landlords in court if they fail to comply with the requirements of Awaab’s Law, which mandates the timely remediation of damp and mould hazards. This development is significant for landlords, as it introduces stricter legal obligations and potential compensation claims related to property conditions.

Overview of Awaab’s Law Extension to the Private Rented Sector

Awaab’s Law, initially introduced for social housing landlords, requires the prompt repair of damp and mould issues to protect tenant health and safety. Under the Renters’ Rights Act, the government plans to extend these obligations to the private rented sector. Although the implementation date has not yet been confirmed, the law is expected to come into force during phase three of the Act, anticipated in 2027.

This extension means that all private landlords will be legally required to address damp and mould within strict timeframes once the regulations are set. The government has emphasised that it will apply the law in a manner that is “fair, proportionate and effective” for both landlords and tenants, recognising the operational differences between social housing and the PRS.

Legal Consequences for Non-Compliance

According to official guidance on the Renters’ Rights Act, landlords who fail to meet the requirements of Awaab’s Law may face legal challenges from tenants. The law will imply terms into private tenancy agreements, obliging landlords to act within specified timescales to resolve hazards such as damp and mould.

If a landlord breaches these terms, tenants will have the right to take the matter to court. Courts may then order landlords to undertake the necessary remedial work and/or pay compensation to affected tenants. This introduces a new level of accountability for landlords regarding property maintenance and tenant health.

In addition to court action, tenants can initially raise complaints directly with landlords. Should these complaints remain unresolved, tenants may escalate the issue to the new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman, providing an alternative dispute resolution route.

Timeframes and Obligations: What Landlords Should Expect

While specific timeframes for the PRS have yet to be announced, the government’s current standards for social housing require emergency hazards to be fixed within 24 hours and significant hazards to be investigated within 10 working days. Under Awaab’s Law, social housing landlords must also cover the cost of alternative accommodation if the property cannot be made safe within a defined period.

The government acknowledges the differences between social housing and the PRS and intends to consult on how best to apply these standards fairly. Landlords should prepare for forthcoming regulations that will likely set clear deadlines for addressing damp and mould, with potential financial and legal implications for non-compliance.

Implications for UK Landlords and Agents

For landlords and letting agents, the extension of Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector signals a shift towards more stringent property condition standards and enhanced tenant protections. Ensuring prompt and effective responses to damp and mould issues will become a legal necessity, not just a best practice.

Landlords should review their property maintenance procedures and consider proactive inspections to identify and resolve damp-related problems swiftly. Failure to comply could result in court orders, compensation payments, and reputational damage. Agents managing properties on behalf of landlords will also need to adapt their compliance monitoring and tenant communication protocols accordingly.

Looking Ahead: Government Support and Further Details

The government has committed to working with private landlords and tenants to develop regulations that balance fairness and effectiveness. Further details on the application of Awaab’s Law to the PRS will be published following consultation, allowing landlords to prepare for the changes ahead.

TLA Update: Trusted Partners Hub Launching in 2026

The Tenant and Landlord Association (TLA) is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in the first quarter of 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 interested in joining the hub are invited to register their interest at landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/.