MHCLG Consultation - Extending Awaab's Law to the Private Rented Sector
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) published a consultation on extending Awaab's Law to private rented sector tenancies and to certain types of accommodation occupied under licence.
Awaab's Law was introduced in social housing sector in October 2025 and requires social landlords to investigate and address hazards such as damp and mould within set timescales. The consultation uses these existing social housing requirements as its starting point. However, it recognises that there are significant differences between the social and private rented sectors and seeks views and evidence on whether the same requirements would work effectively in the private rented sector, or whether modifications are needed to achieve the best outcomes. Views are also sought on the appropriate timescale for implementation.
In addition to private rented sector tenancies, the consultation seeks views on extending Awaab's Law to three specialist forms of accommodation occupied under licence:
Temporary accommodation for homeless households
Supported housing
Care leaver accommodation
Letting agents, property managers, block managers, landlords and local authorities are encouraged to review the proposals and consider how they may affect their current repair, maintenance and complaints handling processes. Responding to the consultation provides an important opportunity for the sector to share practical experience and help shape how the requirements will operate in practice.
The consultation closes at 11:59pm on 18 December 2026.
The consultation can be accessed on GOV.UK: Extending Awaab's Law to private rented tenancies and to licences.