Understanding the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law: What Landlords Need to Know

The Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law are landmark regulations designed to ensure safer, healthier housing. While they share a common goal of protecting tenants, they also impose stricter obligations on landlords – especially in light of the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill.

The Decent Homes Standard

Initially aimed at social housing, this standard now influences the private rental sector through the Renters’ Rights Bill. It mandates that homes:

• Are in a good state of repair
• Include modern, functional facilities
• Are energy efficient and safe

Councils now have stronger enforcement powers, including the ability to conduct inspections and prosecute non-compliant landlords. Fiixit helps landlords stay compliant by logging, tracking, and resolving repair issues quickly.

Awaab’s Law

Prompted by the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, this law targets damp and mould hazards. From October 2025, social landlords must fix reported issues within set timeframes. Private landlords are expected to follow suit by 2026.

Awaab’s Law will become a contractual duty within tenancy agreements, giving tenants the legal right to take landlords to court.

Compliance Made Easy with Fiixit

To comply:

• Conduct regular inspections
• Address damp/mould swiftly
• Maintain proper ventilation
• Log all maintenance work through Fiixit’s platform

Fiixit enables landlords to manage every repair and communication in one place—ensuring full transparency and legal compliance.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Landlords face civil penalties up to £7,000 and potential criminal prosecution for breaches. Avoid these risks by using Fiixit’s tools to stay proactive and accountable.

Need help staying compliant? Try Fiixit today for free and protect your properties and your tenants.