Attention Landlords! Awaab’s Law on Mould, Damp and Taking Care of Your Property
If you are a landlord you may have heard about new regulations for social housing being enforced in 2024. These are largely based on Awaab’s Law.
In the wake of Awaab Ishak’s tragic story, Awaab’s Law has emerged as a beacon of change for social housing, highlighting the urgent need for landlords to tackle health and safety hazards head-on. This legislation not only mandates swift action against hazards like damp and mould but also emphasises the importance of professional expertise in ensuring tenant safety. Here’s a simplified guide to what landlords need to know and the critical role of professional cleaners certified in biohazard cleaning.
Understanding Awaab’s Law
Awaab’s Law is a response to a tragic incident where two-year-old Awaab Ishak lost his life due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home. This legislation aims to prevent such tragedies by setting stringent standards for social housing landlords, including rapid response, comprehensive repair work and enhanced accountability and transparency.
In action terms, what does that mean? Landlords must investigate reported hazards within 14 days and initiate repair work within 7 days for significant risks. Emergency repairs should start within 24 hours, and all repairs must be completed in a “reasonable time period.” Landlords should also keep clear records of communication with tenants and contractors for compliance and tenant safety.
The Vital Role of Professional Cleaners
The enactment of Awaab’s Law emphasises on the crucial role of professional cleaners, especially those with biohazard cleaning certificates. These professionals are trained to tackle biohazards like mould, ensuring safe and effective removal. Their methods prioritise safety, using appropriate techniques and products to protect themselves and tenants. Furthermore, trained professionals are able to quickly assess and address mould issues, helping landlords meet the tight deadlines mandated by the law.
Beyond cleaning, professional cleaners discover and tackle the root causes of mould, such as moisture and ventilation, to prevent future growth. They are also able to provide detailed reports of their findings and the steps taken to resolve issues, essential for meeting Awaab’s Law requirements.
Why This Matters
Hiring professional cleaners with biohazard certification is more than a legal obligation; it’s a proof for a landlord’s commitment to tenant welfare. Mould is far from being simply an aesthetic issue. It is identified as a significant health hazard. The tragedy that spurred Awaab’s Law into action has shed light on the critical need for proper maintenance and the professional remediation of hazards in social housing.
As we move forward, Awaab’s Law represents a major shift in how social housing is regulated, putting the health and safety of tenants first. For landlords, this means adopting a proactive and responsible approach to property maintenance. By engaging certified professional cleaners, landlords not only comply with the new legal standards but also demonstrate a deep commitment to creating safe, healthy living environments.
In essence, the collaboration between landlords and professional cleaners under the guidance of Awaab’s Law is a step towards safeguarding the health and well-being of tenants. It’s a move towards not only adhering to legal obligations but also ensuring that the homes we provide are fit for living in every sense.