October 26 | Awaab’s Law comes to Scotland

On 6^th October 2026, Awaab’s law becomes a legal requirement in Scotland. This is one of the most significant pieces of legislation to hit the Scottish PRT in many years. Landlords need to understand what it requires – and implement and necessary fixes – ahead of this date.

What is Awaab’s Law?

Awaab's Law is named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who died in 2020 from a respiratory condition caused by severe mould in a social housing flat in England. His death prompted legislation that is now making its way into Scotland's private rented sector.

The Scottish Parliament has approved the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, with a formal commencement date of 6 October 2026. For the first time, private landlords in Scotland will be held to strict, statutory timescales to investigate and repair damp and mould in their properties.

What does it actually require?

Once a tenant raises a damp or mould issue, whether a text, phone call or email, a landlord must comply to the below timeline:

• 10 working days to complete an investigation

• 3 working days to provide the tenant with a written summary of findings

• 5 working days to begin any required repairs

If compliance within these timescales isn’t possible due to circumstances genuinely outwith your control, you must inform the tenant, explain the reasons, confirm a revised timescale and take reasonable steps to solve the problem in the meantime. All of this must be documented in writing.

What to do now

1. Check your properties: If your rental is tenanted, consider a mid-term inspection to check behind furniture, around window frames, under sinks, inside wardrobes on external walls. If you find anything, deal with it now. If your property has previous had a damp problem, check the area as it’s more likely to reoccur.

2. Build up contractor relationships: When the law comes into force, you’ll need a plumber, joiner or damp specialist who can mobilise within 10 working days.

3. Set up a record system: Every communication with a tenant about a maintenance issue should be recorded – and in the event of a phone call, you should follow up with email. Include the date, time, what was reported, what action has been taken and when.

How EPIC can help

Awaab’s Law doesn’t exist in isolation – it’s part of a wider shift in how Scotland regulates the private rental sector. EPIC works with landlords across Aberdeen city and shire to stay on the right side of the evolving legislation. Our established network of trusted North East tradespeople means that when a repair is needed, we’re able to act swiftly.

Every job is documented, all communications are recorded ad supplied to the landlord so they  have a paper trial if ever required.

If you need assistance or peace of mind that your properties and processes are ready for October, get in touch now.

01224 645 500 | info@epicpropertyservicesaberdeen.co.uk | LinkedIn