Phase 1: since 27 October 2025
Awaab's Law has applied since 27 October 2025 to all emergency hazards (except overcrowding) and to damp and mould that poses a significant risk.
Phase 2: from 30 November 2026
From 30 November 2026, these hazards are also covered when they pose a significant risk:
- excess cold
- excess heat
- falls
- structural collapse and falling elements
- fire and explosions
- electrical hazards
- hygiene hazards.
Phase 3
The government has said it plans to extend Awaab's Law in 2027 to the remaining hazards in the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, except overcrowding.
What's outside Awaab's Law
- Homes occupied under a licence, shared ownership homes and long leaseholders.
- Fire hazards in communal areas covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
- Overcrowding.
Getting ready
- Update your Awaab's Law procedure for the new hazards.
- Make sure staff and contractors can recognise them and report them the same day.
- Check your repairs reporting routes, including out of hours.
Questions
Is damp and mould already covered?
Yes. Damp and mould that poses a significant risk has been covered since 27 October 2025, along with emergency hazards.
Is overcrowding covered?
No. Overcrowding is outside Awaab's Law, and the government plans to keep it outside in Phase 3.
Are fire hazards in communal areas covered?
Not where they're covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Awaab's Law guidance for social landlords
- UK Parliament: written statement HCWS222, 13 July 2026
This guide is general information, not legal advice.