Landlords and letting agents in Scotland are being urged by Propertymark to prepare for Awaab's Law, which will come into effect in one week. From October 6, landlords will be required to address issues of damp and mould within specific timeframes.
Propertymark's policy officer, Hazel MacIver, stated that landlords and agents should review their processes to ensure a quick response to damp and mould reports. She highlighted the importance of clear reporting and recording procedures, with systems to track statutory deadlines. Investigations must be completed within 10 working days, a written summary provided to tenants within three working days of the investigation, and remedial work started within five working days if substantial damp or mould is found.
The Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) chief executive, John Blackwood, welcomed the implementation of Awaab's Law, stating that the private rented sector must ensure such a tragedy "never happens again."
However, the Regulatory Review Group (RRG), an advisory board to the Scottish government, previously warned that Awaab's Law could deter investment and cause landlords to leave the market. Professor Russel Griggs, chair of the RRG, expressed concerns that the cumulative impact of regulations, including Awaab's Law, would increase the regulatory burden, particularly affecting small landlords.