From 30 November 2026, social housing tenants will benefit from expanded protections under Awaab's Law, as the second phase introduces seven new rules requiring landlords to address a wider range of hazards urgently. The first phase came into effect in October 2025.
What Is Awaab's Law?
Awaab's Law was created after the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020, who died from a respiratory condition caused by severe damp and mould in his home. The law aims to prevent similar tragedies by forcing landlords to fix serious hazards within strict timeframes.
New Hazards Covered from November 2026
The second phase extends to seven categories of non-emergency hazards that can seriously affect health and safety:
- Risks from falling, such as unsafe stairs or broken balcony railings
- Structural problems, including unsafe walls or ceilings
- Electrical faults
- Hygiene issues, such as pests, drainage or sanitation problems
- Excess cold and heat, for example heating failure or broken windows
- Fire risks
The government stated in a press release that these hazards put people at risk, especially children, older people, and those with disabilities or health conditions.
Official Statements
Housing Secretary Steve Reed said: "Awaab's Law sends a clear message that tenants' health and safety can never be compromised. This action will mean dangers have to be dealt with quickly by law, protecting tenants' rights to a safe and decent home."
Gavin Smart, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), commented: "Extending Awaab's Law to these hazards is an important step towards safer, healthier homes, and we welcome the collaborative approach the government has taken. This is about more than compliance; it is a culture of listening to residents and acting on their concerns, and that is the change we want to help the sector deliver. CIH will support our members in delivering these duties and in continuing to feedback throughout the test-and-learn phase."
Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, added: "The safety of homes is housing associations’ top priority. We welcome the publication of this guidance, which gives housing associations more clarity over the next phase of Awaab’s Law and time to prepare for its implementation. We and our members have engaged with the government throughout the development of Awaab’s Law to ensure it achieves the best outcomes for residents and is deliverable for housing associations, and we will continue to work with the government on these important measures."
Impact on Landlords and Tenants
The new rules mean landlords must respond more quickly to a broader set of issues, with tenants able to take legal action if hazards are not fixed within specified times. The government expects this to improve living conditions for millions of social housing residents across England.
