Awaab’s Law is named after Awaab Ishak who tragically died in 2020 due to health conditions linked to black mould in his home. His family, and other visitors had repeatedly reported the issues to the landlord.
Like other housing associations, we currently work to the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) which sets out different timescales for dealing with different hazards in customers’ homes. Awaab’s Law builds on the HHSRS but sets out stricter timescales for damp and mould hazards.
What this means for you
Our new approach means we’ll investigate and resolve reports of damp and mould hazards more quickly.
If you spot excessive condensation, damp or mould in your home let us know straight away so we can resolve it as quickly as possible. You can report an issue by calling us on 0113 386 1000.
Signs of condensation, damp and mould:
- Condensation is usually caused by moist air meeting cold surfaces e.g. poor ventilation or heating. You might get water on the inside of your walls or windows and black mould around your window frames.
- Rising damp is usually caused by a faulty or missing Damp Proof Course (DPC). You might see water marks at the bottom of your walls, salt residue or peeling paint.
- Penetrating damp is usually caused by water coming into your home through things like broken roof tiles or cracked mortar. You might see discoloured patches on you walls or ceilings, particularly after rain.
- Mould is caused by condensation and any form of damp. You might see black, green or white fungal patches on walls, ceilings or furniture.
