Christian Weaver talks Awaab’s Law, hazards in your property and where to seek support! Interview / Kai Jasper
Housing safety and tenant protection have become key national priorities following the tragic death of two year old Awaab Ishak in 2020. His death, caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s Rochdale flat, prompted widespread public concern and ultimately led to the introduction of Awaab’s Law — legislation designed to prevent similar tragedies.
Kai Jasper recently spoke with Christian Weaver, the barrister who represented Awaab Ishak’s family during the inquest that reshaped housing policy across the UK. Weaver, a respected barrister and author, supported the family’s fight for justice and was instrumental in highlighting the systemic failings that allowed unsafe living conditions to persist.
Awaab’s Law was created to ensure that tenants are never ignored when reporting dangerous conditions in their homes. It establishes strict timelines that landlords and social housing providers must follow when responding to reports of hazards.
Under the new law Serious hazards such as damp and mould must be investigated within 10 days of being reported.
Once a problem has been confirmed, landlords have five days to begin and complete necessary repairs. Emergency hazards, including severe water leaks or exposed electrical wiring that pose an immediate risk of harm, must be resolved within 24 hours.
Currently, Awaab’s Law is in its first phase, focusing on damp, mould, and other immediate health risks. Future phases are expected to expand coverage to include a wider range of hazards such as fire damage, excessive cold, and risks associated with falls.
Tenants who experience any of these issues are advised to report them directly to their landlord or housing provider, clearly referencing Awaab’s Law in their complaint. If no action is taken within the required timeframes, tenants have the right to escalate the matter and may take legal action if necessary.
The introduction of Awaab’s Law represents a major step forward in ensuring that all residents live in safe, healthy homes. It reinforces accountability among landlords and highlights the importance of maintaining housing conditions that protect tenants from harm.
Listen to the full interview here:
For more details about Awaab’s Law and what it covers visit:
gov.uk/socialhousing-law
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