Social housing · England

Awaab's Law Phase 2: electrical hazards

From 30 November 2026, social housing landlords must investigate and fix electrical hazards within legally set timescales — not just damp and mould. Here is what changes and what it means for landlords, tenants and electricians.

What is Awaab's Law?

Awaab's Law was introduced after the death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak. It was created through the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 and requires social housing landlords to investigate and deal with serious health and safety hazards within timescales set in law.

Phase 1 — since October 2025

Damp and mould hazards, plus emergency hazards that present an immediate risk to tenant safety.

Phase 2 — from 30 November 2026

Expands to further Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) hazards, including electrical hazards, fire, structural collapse, excess cold and excess heat.

Applies to social landlords (housing associations, local authorities and other registered providers). The exact investigation and repair timescales are set out in the government guidance linked below — check it directly rather than relying on summaries.

What it means in practice

For social landlords

When electrical defects or risks are reported, they must be investigated, communicated to residents and resolved within the statutory framework. Government guidance says electrical hazards should be investigated by a "qualified and competent" electrician.

For electricians

Expect more inspection and testing, fault diagnosis and remedial work — with greater emphasis on accurate reports, clear records and quick response times so landlords can show compliance.

For tenants

Report electrical concerns — sparking sockets, burning smells, scorch marks, repeated tripping — to your landlord in writing so there is a clear record. If you think there is immediate danger, switch off at the main switch if safe and call for help.

Private rented homes

Awaab's Law does not yet apply to private landlords. The government opened a public consultation on 9 October 2026 on extending it to the private rented sector. Private landlords already have separate duties, including a 5-yearly EICR — see landlord electrical duties.

Need an electrical hazard investigated?

All Cabling Limited is NAPIT-approved and carries out EICRs, fault-finding and remedial work for landlords and housing providers across Brighton, Hove and Sussex, with clear written reports. Free quotes.

07770 880255 Landlord help

Sources

Last reviewed November 2026. Summary based on industry news and government guidance; not legal advice.