Five Things Roofers Need to Know about Awaab’s Law

What is Awaab’s Law?

Awaab’s Law was introduced for the social housing sector in 2023, in response to the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in December 2020. Awaab suffered from respiratory issues due to prolonged exposure to toxic black mould in his home. The legislation is the first to provide strict timescales that health hazards like damp and mould must be addressed in.

Under the government’s proposals of how Awaab’s Law will be implemented, landlords must investigate reports of damp and mould within two weeks, and repair them within one further week, with only 24 hours given to repair ‘emergency’ hazards. This law is part of broader reforms to improve the quality and safety of social housing and improve tenants’ rights to damp and mould in the UK.

When will Awaab’s Law be implemented?

Awaab’s Law was introduced in July 2023 through the landmark Social Housing Regulation Act 2023, under Clause 42 ‘Social housing leases: remedying hazards’. Under this legislation, since 1 April 2024, all social housing providers in England must ensure their tenants’ safety by staying aware of the conditions of homes they let and the people they house.

The government the Awaab’s Law consultation earlier this year, with the primary purpose of setting the exact timeframes within which any health hazards must be fixed. These timeframes will be mandated by law through secondary legislation, which is widely expected to arrive later this year.

Who does Awaab’s Law apply to?

Currently, Awaab’s Law applies specifically to social housing landlords in England. This includes local councils and housing associations that manage social housing properties. The law mandates these landlords to investigate and address issues like damp and mould within strict timeframes to ensure the safety and well-being of their tenants.

Following announcements made post Labour’s election win, in the King’s Speech, it was revealed that the Awaab’s Law will expand to the private rented sector (PRS) through the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Impact of Awaab’s Law on roofing contractors

Klober is now encouraging roofers to be aware of what the implementation of Awaab’s Law means for them, as they will likely be on the front-line of supporting private and social landlords with remedying poorly ventilated homes.

The rapid rate at which repairs will soon need to be completed could mean several things for contractors. Whether that is carrying more equipment and supplies with them at all times, or prioritising clients and work differently, Awaab’s Law will force a sweeping change across the industry, and it is essential roofers react and prepare now.

In particular, the roofing accessories specialist suggests that roofers regularly check their stock of roof tile vents, so these materials are readily at hand to ventilate the roof space, or to be an outlet for mechanical ventilation. This is especially as the government estimated that the number of homes in England with damp and mould range from 4% to 27% of homes, or 962,000 to 6.5 million households.

Awaab’s Law and the implementation of these timescales will mean roofing contractors must be vigilant and aware of ways they can effectively ventilate a roof space or home. Equally, they must know how to prevent water ingress into the roof space and carry out remediation work quickly, as this is one of the leading causes of damp. Any roofing contractors who have questions or concerns around roof space ventilation can always reach out to Klober for help.

To help roofing contractors understand ventilation for the roof space, Klober has developed a guide which can be found here. It includes relevant British Standards, extra tips and how to find the appropriate tile vent for each application. Klober’s products are also readily available in local merchants and distributors.

Why do I need roof tile vents following Awaab’s Law?

There is a risk that mould can quickly spread and grow, from the roof and into the living space of a property. Resolving damp and mould issues in the home is extremely important. By helping to prevent mould and damp, roof tile vents contribute to a healthier living environment, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and other health problems.

Roof tile vents help prevent moisture build up in attics and roof spaces. They also help with temperature regulation in attic spaces, helping them stay cool in summer and warm in winter. Another bonus they provide is increased air circulation, ensuring fresh air circulates throughout roof spaces, reducing the risk of condensation and associated problems.