In a resolute effort to honour the memory of Awaab Ishak and ensure the safety of all residents, the UK Government has unveiled comprehensive plans to crack down on rogue social landlords who fail to provide safe and healthy homes. This landmark initiative comes in the wake of the tragic passing of two-year-old Awaab Ishak from Rochdale, whose untimely death resulted from a respiratory condition triggered by the extensive presence of mould in his living space.
The proposed reforms initiated through a consultation led by Housing Secretary Michael Gove, aim to establish stringent time limits for social housing providers, compelling them to promptly address hazardous conditions. Awaab’s Law, as it is informally known, introduces legal requirements for landlords to investigate and commence repairs of hazards within specific timeframes. The emphasis is on emergency repairs, with landlords mandated to respond within 24 hours of being notified.
Housing Secretary Michael Gove affirmed, “Today is about stronger and more robust action against social landlords who have refused to take their basic responsibilities seriously for far too long.” The proposed legislation not only seeks to hold landlords accountable but also demands transparency, requiring them to maintain clear records demonstrating compliance with the new timelines.
Awaab’s father, Faisal Abdullah, expressed hope that this new law would prevent other families from enduring similar pain, underscoring the necessity for landlords to attentively listen to tenants’ concerns. Social housing campaigner Kwajo Tweneboa welcomed the consultation phase, emphasizing the crucial role of enforcement in ensuring the effectiveness of Awaab’s Law.
Tenants will gain the power to take landlords to court if hazardous conditions are not promptly addressed, marking a significant stride toward raising standards in social housing. The government acknowledges that ongoing challenges persist, and it is committed to further improvements, supported by the Social Housing (Regulation) Act, which grants the regulator and tenants increased authority to combat rogue landlords.
New enforcement measures include the imposition of unlimited fines and the authority to enter properties for emergency repairs, highlighting the government’s unwavering determination to root out detrimental practices. Addressing systemic issues that arose after the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the government seeks to empower tenants, ensuring not only the safety and quality of social housing but also fair treatment by landlords.
Awaab’s Law represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of safer and healthier living conditions for all residents of social housing in the UK, marking a decisive step toward eradicating substandard practices and upholding the rights and well-being of tenants.
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