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Student Housing
#1 Student Lettings Agency
As part of the ongoing effort to improve living conditions for renters in the UK, a major legal shift is coming — and landlords need to take note. Awaab’s Law, originally passed to regulate social housing, is now being extended to the private rented sector through the new Renters’ Rights Bill.
This legislation brings major responsibilities for private landlords when it comes to damp, mould, and health hazards in rental homes. Here’s what you need to know and how to stay compliant.
Awaab’s Law is named after Awaab Ishak, a 2-year-old boy who tragically died in 2020 due to prolonged exposure to black mould in his family’s social housing flat in Rochdale. The inquest into his death found that the mould issue had been reported multiple times, but not acted upon — and public outcry followed.
Campaigns led by the Manchester Evening News, Shelter, and the Ishak family prompted the government to introduce new legislation: Awaab’s Law, part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023. The law compels social landlords to respond promptly to health hazards like damp and mould.
And now — it’s being applied to the private rented sector too.
The Renters’ Rights Bill aims to protect tenants by extending the same safety and enforcement standards into the private sector. As a landlord, here’s what that means:
✅ Landlords must act within strict timeframes to address complaints involving damp, mould, or other health hazards.
✅ Failure to respond could now lead to legal action from tenants — even in private housing.
✅ Enforcement will be stricter, with tenants able to escalate unresolved issues through the courts.
✅ Letting agents and landlords will be held accountable for timely, documented responses to property defects.
If you rent to students in Lincoln — especially in older West End or city-centre properties — mould, condensation, and insulation issues are not uncommon. Awaab’s Law now makes quick action a legal requirement, not just a best practice.
Taking proactive steps protects both your tenants and your property — and ensures you stay compliant with the law. Here’s a 6-step approach:
Damp prevention starts with tenant awareness. Provide clear guidance at the start of the tenancy through welcome packs, user guides, or inspections.
Tips to share with students:
Open windows regularly and use extractor fans when cooking or showering.
Avoid drying clothes indoors if possible.
Wipe condensation from windows and sills daily.
Use a dehumidifier if one is provided.
Report early signs of mould or damp immediately.
Fit or upgrade extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
Keep trickle vents open on double glazing.
Leave gaps behind furniture to allow airflow.
Remind tenants not to block vents.
Improve EPC ratings by updating wall, roof, or floor insulation.
Fit thermostats and user-friendly heating controls.
Seal draughts around windows and doors.
Regularly check:
Gutters and downpipes for overflow.
Roofs for damage or missing tiles.
Plumbing joints under sinks, baths, or boilers.
Leaks are often the hidden cause of damp — left untreated, they get costly fast.
Acknowledge tenant reports of damp or mould within 24 hours.
Arrange inspection or contractor visits within 48 hours.
Keep written records of every step to show compliance under Awaab’s Law.
Include damp and mould checks in every property visit.
Look for condensation, dark patches, peeling paint, or musty smells.
Photograph any issues and follow up with a written plan of action.
With the Renters’ Rights Bill now reinforcing Awaab’s Law across all rental properties — not just social housing — landlords must act fast, document everything, and prioritise tenant health.
👉 If you’re a landlord working with Student Housing in Lincoln, we can help you stay compliant. From maintenance management to EPC upgrades and legal support, our team is here to make renting safer — and simpler.
Contact our maintenance team or log an issue at:
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#1 Student Lettings Agency
Student Housing is a top-rated student lettings agency offering fully furnished, bills-included accommodation across Lincoln, Nottingham, and Hull. Run by former students, we provide hassle-free, transparent housing tailored for university life.
