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Awaab's Law Scotland Information March 2026
A major shift in housing legislation is on the horizon for Scotland’s private rented sector, as Awaab’s Law is set to be introduced through new regulations later this year. For landlords, this marks a significant change in how property standards, particularly around damp and mould are managed, monitored, and enforced.
At Ronald Ross, we’re committed to keeping our landlords informed and prepared. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law was introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020, caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his home. The legislation is designed to ensure that no tenant lives in conditions that pose a serious risk to their health.
In Scotland, the law is being implemented as part of wider housing reforms under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025. Its primary aim is to ensure that landlords take swift, accountable action when hazards such as damp and mould are reported.
Key Changes for Landlords
The introduction of Awaab’s Law will bring clear, enforceable responsibilities for both social and private landlords across Scotland:
1. Mandatory Response Times
Landlords will be required to investigate reports of damp and mould within defined timeframes and begin repairs promptly.
Landlords will be required to investigate reports of damp and mould within defined timeframes and begin repairs promptly.
2. Faster Repairs
Once an issue is identified, landlords must take action quickly and particularly where there is a risk to tenant health.
Although initially focused on damp and mould, the law may extend to other serious hazards affecting tenant safety over time.
Once an issue is identified, landlords must take action quickly and particularly where there is a risk to tenant health.
Although initially focused on damp and mould, the law may extend to other serious hazards affecting tenant safety over time.
4. Increased Accountability
Failure to comply could lead to enforcement action, penalties, or tribunal cases, strengthening tenant rights across the sector.
Failure to comply could lead to enforcement action, penalties, or tribunal cases, strengthening tenant rights across the sector.
What This Means in Practice
Scottish landlords are already required to meet the Repairing Standard, ensuring properties are wind and watertight and free from disrepair. However, Awaab’s Law goes further by introducing strict timelines and clearer legal expectations.
In practical terms, this means:
- Issues can no longer be handled reactively or delayed
- Record-keeping and communication with tenants will become critical
- Preventative maintenance will play a much larger role
Ultimately, landlords will need to adopt a more proactive, tenant-focused approach to property management.
Opportunities for Landlords
While the legislation introduces new obligations, it also presents an opportunity to improve property standards and tenant satisfaction.
Higher-quality homes can lead to:
- Reduced void periods
- Stronger tenant retention
- Fewer long-term repair costs
Awaab’s Law is expected to raise the overall standard of rented housing in Scotland, benefiting both tenants and responsible landlords.
How Ronald Ross Can Help
At Ronald Ross, we understand that keeping up with legislative change can be challenging. Our team is here to support landlords every step of the way, from compliance checks and property inspections to maintenance coordination and tenant communication.
If you would like guidance on preparing your property portfolio for Awaab’s Law, get in touch with our team today.
For more infromation regarding Awaab's Law in Scotland contact our Director, Kimberley Ronald.
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