CORBY & NORTH NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
Awaab’s Law guide in Corby
Damp, mould and repair responsibilities explained for landlords. Know the current rules, keep clear records and deal with the cause of a problem.
WHAT LANDLORDS NEED TO KNOW
Take damp and mould reports seriously
Awaab’s Law is named after Awaab Ishak, who died following exposure to mould in his home. Its first phase took effect in England’s social rented sector on 27 October 2025. The private rented sector extension is a separate reform.
For landlords in Corby and North Northamptonshire, the practical priority is to respond to reported problems, assess any health risk and arrange repairs. Do not assume that cleaning visible mould will resolve a leak, cold wall or faulty extraction system.
Respond promptly
Log reports of damp, leaks or mould and arrange an inspection. Take account of vulnerable occupants when assessing urgency.
Keep clear records
Record when the issue was reported, inspection findings, photographs, appointments, repairs and communications with the tenant.
Find the root cause
Check water ingress, plumbing, extraction and insulation. Follow up after the work to see whether the problem has returned.
CURRENT LEGAL POSITION
What is in force, and what is planned?
These are England’s social-housing timeframes under Phase 1. They are not a universal set of deadlines for private landlords. Read the full government guidance for the requirements and exceptions.
| Situation | Required response |
|---|---|
| Emergency hazard | Investigate and make safe as soon as reasonably practicable, within 24 hours of awareness. |
| Potential significant damp or mould hazard | Investigate within 10 working days of awareness. If confirmed, complete safety work within 5 working days after investigation. |
| Investigation findings | Usually provide a written summary within 3 working days after investigation; a limited completed-work exception applies. |
| Preventing recurrence | Begin further work within 5 working days, or take steps to start as soon as practicable and within 12 weeks. Complete within a reasonable time. |
If safety work cannot meet the applicable deadline, suitable alternative accommodation must be offered. The 12-week backstop for further work does not extend the deadline for making a home safe.
Private landlords: existing duties still matter
The government’s roadmap lists the private rented sector extension of Awaab’s Law as a later phase, with timing subject to consultation. Private landlords already have duties relating to repairs, fitness for habitation and dangerous housing conditions. Waiting for the extension is not a reason to leave damp or mould unresolved.
Social-housing Phase 2 is scheduled for 30 November 2026 and broadens the significant hazards covered. Check the current phase guidance when using this guide after that date.
PROPERTY TYPES
Single lets and HMOs both need attention
Single lets and family homes
Condensation, leaks, cold walls and broken extractor fans can affect an ordinary rental home. Agree access promptly and keep the tenant informed while investigating.
- Take dated photographs and inspection notes.
- Check water ingress, pipework, fans and ventilation.
- Review insulation and cold spots.
- Keep repair records and confirm the result.
Shared homes and HMOs
Shared kitchens and bathrooms can create more moisture and put greater demand on extraction. Check communal areas as well as individual reports.
- Test extractor fans and look for blocked vents.
- Inspect bathrooms, kitchens and communal damp spots.
- Record complaints and follow-up actions.
- Assess occupants’ needs and any increased health risk.
PRACTICAL ACTION
A damp and mould checklist for landlords
When a report arrives
- Log the report and ask about affected rooms and occupants.
- Assess urgency and arrange a suitable inspection.
- Record findings with dated notes and photographs.
- Explain the next steps and expected appointments.
- Arrange necessary safety work promptly.
Resolve the cause
- Check roofing, gutters, flashing and plumbing leaks.
- Review extraction, airflow and ventilation.
- Assess insulation, cold bridging and heating issues.
- Record completed repairs and any remaining work.
- Follow up with the tenant before closing the report.
For Corby landlords managing a single home or a portfolio, a consistent process makes it easier to track outstanding repairs and maintain safe homes. Keep this alongside your landlord compliance checklist and management records.
YOUR QUESTIONS
Awaab’s Law FAQs
Does Awaab’s Law already apply to private landlords in Corby?
As checked on 7 October 2026, the specific Awaab’s Law deadlines described here apply to social housing in England. The government’s roadmap places the private rented sector extension in a later phase, with implementation timing subject to consultation. Private landlords already have repair and housing-safety duties.
Should private landlords still act now?
Yes. Existing duties to repair and provide a home fit for habitation already matter. Record the report, assess the risk, arrange an inspection and necessary repairs, and keep the tenant informed. Do not wait for new legislation to address an unsafe home.
Is mould washing enough?
Usually not on its own. Treating visible mould may be an immediate step, but recurring problems need an investigation into the cause. Check for leaks, water ingress, insulation defects, heating and ventilation problems, and follow up after repairs.
Are HMOs more vulnerable to damp and mould issues?
They can be. More occupants and shared kitchens and bathrooms can mean more moisture. Reliable extraction, adequate ventilation and prompt maintenance are important. Assess each property and the needs of its occupants rather than assuming every HMO has the same risk.
What is the biggest mistake landlords should avoid?
Leaving a report unresolved. Delay can allow a defect to worsen and make it harder to establish what happened. Keep dated inspection and repair records, communicate clearly and check that the work has resolved the problem.
Related landlord guides
Need help with your rental property?
Speak to Oleon Properties about inspections, maintenance and property management in Corby.
Sources and further guidance
Checked against these government resources on 7 October 2026. This is general information for England; obtain advice on the duties and timescales applying to a particular tenancy or hazard.