Awaab’s Law & How Atlas Can Help

Awaab’s Law: Why It Matters for Housing Safety and How Atlas Survey & Building Services Can Help

In the wake of a tragic and preventable death, Awaab’s Law has been introduced to bring much-needed change to the way serious housing hazards—such as mould and damp—are dealt with in social housing. For professionals working in the damp and timber sector, it marks a turning point in how we prioritise health, safety, and responsibility in residential environments.

At Atlas Survey & Building Services Ltd, we’re proud to support this movement. As qualified damp and timber surveyors and members of the Property Care Association (PCA), we believe Awaab’s Law reinforces what we already know: that no one should have to live in a home where damp and mould threaten their health and wellbeing.

What Is Awaab’s Law?

Awaab’s Law was introduced as part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, following the death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020. Awaab died after prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s flat in Rochdale, despite repeated pleas for help. His death led to public outcry and a government commitment to ensure such a tragedy can never happen again.

The law introduces strict new requirements for social landlords in England, compelling them to:

• Investigate hazards like mould and damp within 14 days

• Begin repairs within 7 days of identifying a hazard

• Resolve issues within a reasonable timeframe, often interpreted as 21 days

Landlords who fail to act face penalties from the Regulator of Social Housing.

Why This Law Is So Important

Awaab’s case is far from isolated. Across the UK, thousands of tenants live in conditions that are unsafe due to moisture ingress, poor ventilation, and untreated fungal decay. These issues are not just structural—they’re deeply connected to public health, especially for children, the elderly, and vulnerable individuals.

Mould and damp are not cosmetic problems. Left untreated, they can lead to respiratory illnesses, skin conditions, and even long-term chronic health complications.

The Role of Professional Surveyors in Tackling Damp & Mould

As experienced damp and timber surveyors, Atlas Survey & Building Services Ltd plays a crucial role in helping landlords, housing associations, and homeowners identify, assess, and remediate these hazards properly.

Our surveys go far beyond a visual check. We provide:

• Detailed PCA-accredited damp and timber reports

• Accurate diagnosis of rising damp, condensation, penetrating damp, and fungal decay

• Clear, actionable recommendations for remediation

• Access to qualified contractors who follow PCA guidelines for safe, effective treatment

We also use industry-approved tools such as hygrometers, moisture meters, and thermal imaging to pinpoint the cause and extent of dampness. This ensures a root-cause solution, not a quick fix.

What Does Awaab’s Law Mean for Landlords and Property Managers?

Although Awaab’s Law applies to social housing, its introduction sets a clear standard for all rented properties, including private lets. Landlords, estate agents, and managing agents should take this as a strong signal to act more swiftly and thoroughly when damp or mould issues are reported.

Partnering with a PCA-registered company like Atlas ensures that surveys and remedial work meet the highest standards and reduce your legal and reputational risk.

Our Commitment at Atlas Survey & Building Services Ltd

We are fully committed to helping housing providers deliver safe, healthy homes. Whether you manage a portfolio of rental properties or need expert support on a single case, we provide:

• Independent, impartial reports

• Full compliance with PCA codes of practice

• Support with tenant communications and remedial planning

Awaab’s Law is not just a new legal requirement—it’s a reminder that the homes we live in must support our health, not put it at risk. At Atlas Survey & Building Services Ltd, we’re here to help you meet and exceed those standards, with professionalism, technical expertise, and a commitment to quality.

If you’re concerned about damp, mould, or timber decay in your property, don’t wait for it to become a legal or health issue. Contact our expert team today to book a survey.