Awaab’s Law Set to Drive Higher Ventilation Standards in Social Housing
What is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law, also known as the Hazards in Social Housing (Prescribed Requirements) (England) Regulations 2025, is a UK legislation set to take effect in October 2025 for all social rented housing. The law seeks to enhance social housing conditions by making social landlords address all emergency hazards and all damp and mould hazards that present a significant risk of harm to tenants.
Why was Awaab’s Law created?
‘Awaab’s Law’ is named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who sadly died in 2020 from a serious respiratory illness. A coroner ruled that his death resulted from prolonged exposure to black mould, caused by inadequate ventilation and housing conditions unsuitable for normal daily living, leading to excessive damp and condensation.
His family repeatedly reported the hazardous conditions in their home in Rochdale, but no effective action was taken. At the inquest, a surveyor described the property as “unfit for human habitation.”
When will the law come in to affect?
The UK government announced plans to introduce Awaab’s Law as part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023. The law will impose strict time limits for repairs, including cases where a health risk is confirmed, landlords will be legally required to take immediate action to protect tenants. This is due to come in to affect in October 2025.
The Importance of Ventilation in Retrofit Projects
Some in the industry may view ventilation requirements under PAS 2035:2023 as challenging or an added expense. However, the tragic death of Awaab Ishak highlights the serious risks of overlooking adequate ventilation, which far outweigh any short-term financial considerations.
Ventilation must be approached with the seriousness it deserves. Effective airflow is not simply a regulatory requirement – it is a vital safeguard for the health and wellbeing of residents in retrofitted homes.
As the sector continues to raise standards, ventilation is becoming an integral part of good retrofit practice. By recognising ventilation as a core element of quality retrofit, professionals can ensure safe, high-quality outcomes that protect residents and enhance the long-term success of their projects.
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