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 will use 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.
Out of Hours, Not Out of Mind - After-Hours Property Management
Most letting agency offices close at 5.30pm, but properties do not. Boilers break down on Friday evenings, keys get lost at midnight and pipes burst on Christmas Day. How an agency handles those moments says a great deal about the quality of its service, and as winter approaches, now is the ideal time to review your out-of-hours arrangements.
Be clear about what counts as an emergency
One of the biggest sources of frustration for tenants and agents alike is uncertainty over what warrants an out-of-hours call. If tenants are unsure, some will call about minor issues at 2am, while others will sit through a genuine emergency because they do not want to cause a fuss. Neither outcome is good for the property or the relationship.
Why Interim Property Visits Matter in the Private Rented Sector
The relationship between landlord and tenant is built upon trust, but property management requires regular oversight. One of the most valuable tools available to landlords and letting agents is the interim property visit, sometimes referred to as a routine inspection.
Whilst many landlords focus on the start and end of a tenancy, the period in between is often where issues can develop unnoticed. Regular interim visits provide an opportunity to identify problems early, maintain communication with tenants and protect both the property and the tenancy relationship.