Understanding Awaab's Law
Every Report Matters
This year, Damp & Mould Week comes shortly after important new legislation comes into force in Scotland. On 6 October 2026, the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, commonly known as Awaab's Law, came into force in Scotland. The legislation introduced new legal requirements for social landlords when damp and mould is reported.
At Glen Oaks Housing Association, we have updated our Dampness, Mould and Condensation Policy and Procedure to ensure we continue to provide homes that are safe, warm and dry and comply with these new requirements.
What is Awaab's Law?
Awaab's Law strengthens the responsibilities of social landlords to investigate damp and mould promptly, keep tenants informed and take action to resolve issues within defined timescales. Our approach focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the problem, not simply treating visible mould.
Awaab's Law gives customers clear rights to have reports of damp and mould investigated and acted upon within defined timescales. These requirements sit alongside existing rights under the Scottish Secure Tenants (Right to Repair) Regulations 2002, which continue to apply where a damp and mould investigation identifies an eligible qualifying repair. Where this applies, we will explain your rights under the Right to Repair Scheme, including the relevant timescales and arrangements available if those timescales are not met.
What Can Customers Expect From Us?
Under our revised policy, when we become aware of a potential damp or mould problem, we will:
✅ Arrange for the issue to be investigated by a competent person within 10 working days.
✅ Provide a written summary of our findings within 3 working days of the investigation being completed.
✅ Where substantial damp or mould is identified, begin necessary repairs within 5 working days of the investigation concluding.
✅ Complete repair works within 20 working days of work starting, unless exceptional circumstances apply.
✅ Keep you informed throughout the process and explain any circumstances that may affect timescales.
✅ Consider any vulnerabilities within the household, including young children, older people, pregnant women and individuals with relevant health conditions.
While we will always aim to meet these timescales, there may occasionally be exceptional circumstances beyond our control, such as access issues, severe weather or delays in obtaining specialist materials. If this happens, we will explain the reason, keep you updated and tell you when we expect the work to be completed.
Our Revised Policy
Our updated policy strengthens our commitment to:
• Investigating every report of damp and mould.
• Taking a proactive approach to identifying underlying causes.
• Keeping clear records and monitoring performance.
• Supporting tenants with advice and guidance where appropriate.
• Ensuring all staff are trained in the requirements of Awaab's Law.
• Learning from customer feedback to improve services.
When Should You Report Damp or Mould?
Please contact us as soon as you notice:
• Visible mould growth
• Damp patches on walls, ceilings or floors
• Leaks or water ingress
• Excessive condensation
• Problems with heating systems
• Problems with ventilation equipment
Early reporting allows us to investigate quickly and prevent problems from becoming worse. Even if you're unsure whether something is damp or mould, please get in touch. We'd rather investigate a concern early than allow a problem to become worse.
How to Report a Concern
If you are worried about damp or mould in your home, please get in touch with us straight away.
📞 Call us on 0141 638 0999 (Option 5)
📧 Email assets@glenoaks.org.uk
💬 Every report matters. If you tell us about damp or mould in your home, we will investigate, communicate clearly, and take action to resolve the problem in line with our revised policy and the new legal requirements.
💙 We're here to listen, investigate and act.