Awaab Ishak Unveils Plan to Compel Landlords to Address Mouldy Homes

The government is proposing a new rule, "Awaab's Law," which mandates that rogue housing landlords must address issues with mould within 24 hours.

This follows the death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak from mould exposure in his Rochdale residence in 2020. If passed, landlords in England would be required to tackle mould complaints urgently, with a two-week deadline for assessment and a seven-day window to start repairs.

Housing Secretary Michael Gove has described the measures as "strong" and necessary to avoid such tragedies. Awaab's father, Faisal Abdullah, has expressed his hope that these changes will spare other families from similar suffering.

The law also outlines tighter deadlines for emergency repairs and record-keeping by landlords.

In tandem with these proposed national changes, Greater Manchester's Mayor Andy Burnham is considering a "good landlords charter" to set local standards.

Additionally, Simon Francis of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition recognizes the problem's extent and insists that the private rented sector needs similar focus.

The government aims to address these concerns with the renters reform bill and is observing the potential impact of Manchester's local initiative.

Recently, a mother in Manchester shared her ordeal with mould affecting her young son's health, underscoring the urgency of addressing this widespread issue.

The proposed legislation follows the Social Housing Act passed last year, which empowers regulators to deal with negligent landlords more effectively.