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From the Renters' Rights reforms to ongoing discussions around energy efficiency standards, landlords are facing increasing expectations around the condition and safety of their
properties...

The private rental sector is changing rapidly, and keeping up with new legislation can feel overwhelming! One of the biggest changes on the horizon is the proposed extension of Awaab's Law into the private rented sector.

While the exact details are still being developed, the message is clear: landlords are being encouraged to take a more proactive rather than reactive approach to property maintenance, particularly when it comes to issues such as damp and mould!

What Is Awaab's Law?

Awaab's Law was introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020. An inquest found that prolonged exposure to mould in his family's social housing property had
contributed to his death. The law was designed to ensure that social landlords investigate and address serious health hazards, including damp and mould, within set timescales. Awaab's Law came into force for social housing providers in England in October 2025.

Does Awaab's Law Apply to Private Landlords?

Not yet, as of June 2026 Awaab's Law does not apply directly to the private rented sector.
However, through the Renters' Rights Act, the Government has taken powers to extend similar requirements to private landlords in the future. A consultation is currently underway on how
these measures could work in practice. Although there is currently no confirmed implementation date, the direction of travel is clear. Expectations around housing standards are increasing, and landlords who prepare early are likely to be in a much stronger position when further changes arrive. We’re expecting to see it implemented in 2027.

Why Landlords Shouldn't Wait

Many landlords assume they'll simply deal with any changes when they become law, but the challenge with that approach is that issues such as damp and mould don’t just appear overnight.

Small maintenance concerns can gradually develop into larger, more expensive problems if they go unnoticed and unaddressed. By the time a tenant raises a complaint, remedial work can be more disruptive, more costly and potentially more stressful for everyone involved!

Being proactive can help landlords:

  • Identify issues before they escalate.
  • Protect the health and wellbeing of tenants.
  • Reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.
  • Demonstrate a responsible approach to property management.
  • Budget for future maintenance rather than facing unexpected expenses.

Damp and Mould Are More Than Just a Cosmetic Issue

Damp and mould can affect both the condition of a property and the health of those living within it.

  • Common causes include:
  • Condensation caused by inadequate ventilation.
  • Poor insulation.
  • Leaks from roofs, pipes or external walls.
  • Rising damp.
  • Blocked or ineffective extraction systems.


While not every case of mould indicates a serious structural issue, it's important that landlords understand what's causing the problem and how best to address it! Early intervention is often simpler and more affordable than extensive remedial work later on.

Introducing Property Health Checks

At Foden Property, we're working with Smart Energy to help landlords stay ahead of potential problems through Property Health Checks. Think of them as an MOT for your rental property!

These checks provide an independent snapshot of a property's condition, helping to identify areas that may benefit from further attention before they become more significant concerns. The reports can highlight potential risk factors associated with damp, mould and overall property health, providing practical recommendations and indicative costs where appropriate. Importantly, these checks are not a legal requirement and do not replace a landlord's existing responsibilities. Instead, they are designed to support landlords in taking a preventative approach to property management.

What Are the Benefits of a Property Health Check?

  • For landlords, the benefits include:
  • The opportunity to address minor issues early.
  • Improved planning for future maintenance costs.
  • Reassurance that steps are being taken to monitor property standards.
  • Peace of mind as legislation continues to evolve!

For tenants, it can mean healthier homes and quicker identification of potential concerns before they affect day-to-day life.

The Rental Market Is Changing 

Whether it's the Renters' Rights reforms, future energy efficiency requirements or the potential extension of Awaab's Law, one thing is certain: the private rental sector is moving towards
greater accountability and higher housing standards. For landlords, waiting until legislation changes may mean scrambling to react.

Preparing now means having time to understand your property's condition, make informed decisions and plan any necessary improvements in a manageable way. At Foden Property, we're committed to helping landlords navigate an increasingly complex landscape. If you'd like to find out more about arranging a Property Health Check, get in touch with our team today!