Awaab’s Law is a landmark update to housing regulations in England that requires social landlords to take swift, decisive action against damp and mould in tenants’ homes. For social housing providers in Cheshire, the new rules represent both a challenge and an opportunity to improve tenant safety and property standards.
This guide breaks down what Awaab’s Law means in practice, and what registered providers must do to stay compliant.
What Is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law is named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to damp and mould in his family’s housing association flat.
The tragedy led to major reform in the housing sector, with the government introducing clear legal duties on how landlords must respond to reports of damp and mould.
Key Requirements Under Awaab’s Law:
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Landlords must investigate reports of damp, mould and structural safety hazards within 14 days
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Necessary repair works must begin within a further 7 days
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All works must be completed within a reasonable timeframe
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Landlords must not blame tenants’ lifestyles for mould issues
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Ventilation and property condition must meet modern housing standards
📌 For full legislation details, visit GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/awaabs-law-to-protect-tenants-from-dangerous-damp-and-mould
How Does It Affect Housing Providers in Cheshire?
Whether you manage properties in Crewe, Macclesfield, Northwich or Alsager, Awaab’s Law is now enforceable across Cheshire — including all registered providers under Cheshire East Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council.
Local authorities are now empowered to:
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Enforce action against non-compliant housing associations
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Require documented mould investigation and treatment records
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Demand property improvements to ventilation, insulation and damp proofing systems
📌 Cheshire East Council – Housing & Property: https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/housing/housing.aspx
How to Meet the New Requirements
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Carry Out Damp & Mould Risk Assessments
Regular property inspections must now include checks for early-stage mould, condensation issues and persistent damp problems — especially in high-risk households (e.g. young children, asthma sufferers).
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Ensure Effective Ventilation
Awaab’s Law highlights the importance of passive and mechanical ventilation in social homes. All properties must have adequate airflow, including extractor fans, trickle vents, and subfloor ventilation where required.
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Treat Damp, Not Just the Surface
Superficial mould wipes won’t cut it. Damp and mould issues must be treated at their source — whether that’s rising damp, penetrating damp or condensation.
At Weather Wise Solutions, we use certified solutions from PAM Ties to deliver long-lasting damp protection, including:
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Internal tanking systems
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DPC injections
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High-performance ventilation installs
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Salt-resistant breathable plaster
📌 Explore PAM Ties damp & ventilation products: https://pamties.co.uk/product-category/damp/damp-proofing-damp/
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Work with Certified Damp Professionals
Under Awaab’s Law, landlords must work with recognised and competent contractors. As a CPD-certified business and member of the Federation of Damp, Weather Wise Solutions ensures full compliance with current regulations.
📌 Learn more: https://federationofdamp.co.uk/
Partner with Local Damp Specialists
We work with social landlords across Cheshire to deliver fast-response damp assessments, reports, and compliant treatments that support tenant safety.
📌 Book a Free Survey or Landlord Quote here: https://weatherwiseuk.co.uk/pages/contact
Ready to meet the standard — and protect your tenants the right way?
Let’s keep homes safe, dry and compliant under Awaab’s Law.