Social landlords in England are being advised to prepare for the second phase of Awaab's Law, which will take effect on 30 November 2026. This expansion will extend statutory deadlines for investigating and repairing hazards to include issues like excess cold, excess heat, falls, structural collapse, fire, explosions, electrical hazards, and domestic hygiene, where they pose a significant risk of harm to tenants.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government confirmed the Phase 2 commencement date on 13 July 2026, alongside updated guidance. The existing timescales for damp and mould, which came into force on 27 October 2025, will now apply to these additional hazards. This means emergency hazards must be investigated and made safe within 24 hours. Significant hazards require investigation within 10 working days, with a written summary provided to the tenant within three working days of the investigation and safety work completed within five working days.
UK Academy of Mould Experts (UKAME) has highlighted that the start date coincides with the beginning of the heating season, when reports of excess cold and damp and mould typically increase. Tristan Hemsley, a specialist consultant, noted that a faulty boiler reported on 30 November could be an emergency hazard under Phase 2, requiring a 24-hour response, particularly for vulnerable residents. UKAME recommends that social landlords update triage processes, tenant records, contractor arrangements, and staff training before the deadline.