Awaab’s Law is reshaping housing safety rules in England — and landlords in Wales should be paying close attention. Although the law currently affects only social housing, the government plans to roll it out to the private rented sector. Wales is likely to follow. Acting now will help you avoid risk and stay ahead of legal changes. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/awaabs-law-to-protect-tenants-from-dangerous-damp-and-mould

At Homelink Lettings, we work with landlords across Newport, Chepstow, and South Wales to ensure properties remain compliant, safe, and well managed.

Why Was Awaab’s Law Introduced?

In 2020, two-year-old Awaab Ishak died after prolonged exposure to mould in a housing association flat. His family had reported the issue multiple times, but the landlord failed to take appropriate action. The tragedy led to public outrage and prompted the government to take stronger measures.

As a result, Awaab’s Law came into effect in England on 27 October 2025. It requires social landlords to investigate and resolve serious health hazards such as damp and mould within strict, fixed timeframes. Landlords must respond promptly and keep detailed records to prove their actions.

It’s Not Just for Social Landlords

Although the law started with social housing, the government has already confirmed it will extend to the private rented sector in England through the Renters’ Rights Act. This means private landlords will soon have the same legal obligations.

In Wales, housing legislation is separate, but the approach often mirrors changes made in England. That’s why private landlords across South Wales should treat Awaab’s Law as a preview of what’s coming.

What Landlords Will Need to Do

The law initially targets damp and mould. However, from 2026, landlords will also need to address a wider range of hazards, including:

• Excess cold or overheating
• Electrical faults
• Fire risks
• Structural issues

By 2027, nearly all hazards listed under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) — with the exception of overcrowding — will fall under legal repair timeframes. Landlords must fix problems quickly and document every step.

The Consequences of Ignoring Hazards

Delays in addressing tenant complaints can lead to serious consequences. Landlords who fail to act could face:

• Fines issued by local authorities
• Rent repayment orders
• Legal disputes with tenants
• Damage to their Rent Smart Wales registration
• Long-term harm to their reputation

Even without Awaab’s Law, Welsh landlords already have a legal responsibility to maintain safe living conditions. Acting early reduces risk and shows tenants you take their concerns seriously.

How Homelink Lettings Helps You Stay Ahead

At Homelink Lettings, we’ve built systems that already align with the standards Awaab’s Law promotes. We take a proactive approach that protects your property, keeps tenants safe, and reduces your exposure to risk.

We start by educating tenants. Many cases of mould result from condensation linked to daily habits — such as drying clothes indoors or blocking ventilation. Our team provides clear advice to help tenants prevent these issues from developing.

Next, we carry out regular property checks. We test extractor fans, inspect trickle vents, confirm heating systems are working, and ensure proper ventilation. When something doesn’t function correctly, we arrange repairs immediately through trusted contractors.

When tenants raise concerns, we respond without delay. We carry out in-person inspections, identify the cause of the problem, take photographs, and explain what steps will be taken to resolve it. Whether the issue stems from the tenant’s lifestyle or the property itself, we handle it quickly and professionally.

Throughout the process, we maintain full records. Every report, photo, repair, and conversation is documented, giving landlords a reliable paper trail if future disputes arise.

What Our Landlords Are Seeing

Landlords across South Wales are already benefiting from this approach. We’ve helped prevent problems from escalating, replaced faulty fans within days, and guided tenants on how to reduce condensation and damp in their homes. These small actions reduce complaints, preserve the condition of properties, and strengthen landlord–tenant relationships.

What You Should Do Next

If you’re a private landlord in Wales, start preparing now. Review how you manage tenant complaints and maintenance issues. Make sure you act quickly, keep proper records, and work with a responsive team.

Don’t wait for new laws to force you into compliance. Taking action today gives you the upper hand and shows you’re committed to safe, responsible letting.

Talk to Homelink Lettings

We work with landlords across Newport, Chepstow, and South Wales to deliver property management that’s legally sound and future-ready. Whether you manage one home or a full portfolio, we’ll help you meet legal obligations and stay ahead of regulation.

Call us today on 01633 910018 or 01291 470126 to speak with a local expert.

Let’s protect your property and prepare you for whatever comes next.