PA MediaHousing Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has said it is “vital” landlords understand the implications of new laws coming in from next week to protect tenants from mould and damp in rented homes.
Ms Somerville said the legislation would require reports of damp or mould to be “swiftly investigated”, with landlords then having to “appropriately tackle” the root cause of the problem.
The changes are being introduced through the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 and come into force from Tuesday, October 6.
They are known as Awaab’s Law after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died in 2020 from a respiratory condition caused by mould in his family’s housing association flat in England.
Guidance published by the Scottish Government sets out that landlords must ensure reports of damp or mould are investigated promptly, with this applying both if tenants report a problem or if issues are uncovered during inspections.
The investigations and repairs must be carried out by someone with the relevant skills and experience, the guidance adds, with repairs being done to tackle the root cause of the problem.
Ms Somerville said: “Everyone deserves the right to live in a warm, safe and secure home, free from disrepair.
“These regulations mean any reports of damp or mould will be swiftly investigated, with landlords required to appropriately tackle the root cause.”
She added: “The vast majority of homes in Scotland are already free from damp and mould, but we’re determined to protect everyone, which is why we’re extending these safeguards to social and private tenants.
“Shaped through close work with tenant and landlord representatives, we have published guidance giving landlords the clarity they need to comply confidently while ensuring tenants are clear on their rights.
“With the law coming into force next week, it’s vital that both landlords and tenants take the time now to understand their rights and responsibilities.
“We’ll also be raising awareness of just how important it is for landlords and tenants to work together, so that damp and mould issues are identified early and resolved quickly.”
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