Landlords in Scotland will have to meet strict timescales for dealing with damp and mould when the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, known as Awaab’s Law, come into force on 6 October, the Scottish Government has announced.
What landlords must do
According to government guidance published ahead of the change, landlords must investigate reports of damp or mould promptly, whether a tenant reports the problem or the landlord notices it during an unrelated visit such as an inspection. Investigations and repairs must be carried out by someone with relevant skills and experience, landlords must provide written findings, and repairs must tackle the root cause rather than just the symptoms.
Covering social and private tenants
Housing Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said everyone deserves a warm, safe and secure home and that the safeguards are being extended to both social and private tenants. She said most homes in Scotland are already free from damp and mould, and urged landlords and tenants to understand their rights and responsibilities before the law takes effect.
Background
The law takes its name from Awaab Ishak, a young child whose death was linked to mould in his family’s home in Rochdale, England, which prompted similar legislation elsewhere in the UK. The government release links to the full guidance.
