The government has confirmed that Awaab’s Law phase two will come into effect on 30th November 2026, expanding the range of hazards currently included in the Law’s timeframes.
An impact assessment of the law found that the implementation of phase two could cost the social housing sector £213.6m in total, including preparation, triage and other associated costs. Of the figure, £136.2m of the burden is expected to fall on registered providers, and £77.4m on local authorities. These costs have not been monetised, as the report claimed it is not possible to estimate the full extent of expenditure to the sector.
Coming into effect just over a month since the implementation of phase one, the Law will bring seven new types of hazards under the remit of the timeframes, with any hazards that pose an immediate danger requiring to be investigated and made safe within 24 hours. For less urgent hazards, investigations must be made within 10 days, with urgent repairs being carried out within five days of the investigation process, and longer-term repairs started within 12 weeks.
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Gavin Smart, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) said:
“Extending Awaab’s Law to these hazards is an important step towards safer, healthier homes, and we welcome the collaborative approach the government has taken. This is about more than compliance; it is a culture of listening to residents and acting on their concerns, and that is the change we want to help the sector deliver. CIH will support our members in delivering these duties and in continuing to feedback throughout the test-and-learn phase.”
The seven new hazards being brought under Awaabs Law in November are electrical hazards, falls, fire and explosions, excess cold, excess heat, structural collapse and falling elements, and domestic hygiene such as pest infestations. Next year will see the implementation of the third and final phase of the law, which will incorporate all remaining hazards apart from overcrowding.
Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation said:
“The safety of homes is housing associations’ top priority. We welcome the publication of this guidance, which gives housing associations more clarity over the next phase of Awaab’s Law and time to prepare for its implementation.
“We and our members have engaged with the government throughout the development of Awaab’s Law to ensure it achieves the best outcomes for residents and is deliverable for housing associations, and we will continue to work with the government on these important measures.”
