Certification body and training provider NAPIT has welcomed phase two of Awaab’s Law, which will come into effect on 30 November 2026, extending the legislation to include electrical safety alongside a wider range of hazards that social landlords must address within defined timescales.
The legislation was introduced following the death of Awaab Ishak in 2020 after prolonged exposure to mould in his home. The first phase, which came into force on 27 October 2025, required social landlords to respond to damp, mould, and emergency hazards that pose a significant risk to tenants.
From 30 November 2026, the law will also apply to seven additional hazards, including fire and electrical hazards, excess cold and heat, falls associated with baths, structural collapse and explosions, and domestic hygiene and food safety.
Electrical hazards include risks arising from unsafe installations and equipment, such as electric shock, burns, and other injuries caused by defective or poorly maintained wiring, consumer units, socket outlets, switches, lighting, and other fixed electrical equipment.
Guidance highlights wider landlord responsibilities
The guidance states that electrical hazards may overlap with fire risks, or present in similar ways, and recommends that landlords prioritise making hazards safe regardless of their initial assessment.
The changes build on recent developments affecting the social housing sector, including electrical safety regulations requiring landlords to inspect and test electrical installations at least every five years for both new and existing tenancies.
The Government has also responded to its consultation on a new Decent Homes Standard for the social and private rented sectors, while separately consulting on a Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard for social housing.
NAPIT says social landlords should prepare for the latest changes by ensuring they have access to suitably qualified and competent professionals who can identify, investigate, and address hazards within the required timeframes.
Stephen Melton, Managing Director of NAPIT, notes, “Awaab’s Law is an important piece of legislation that will improve safety for social housing tenants.
“Social landlords must make sure their tenants are safe in their homes and must ensure that investigations into electrical hazards are completed by a qualified and competent electrician.”
For more from NAPIT, click here.
