Published on Friday 31 October 2025
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is reaffirming its commitment to providing safe, healthy homes for all social housing tenants, at the same time as new legislation comes into force nationally.
Awaab’s Law sets clear standards for tackling damp and mould and BCP Council is exceeding these requirements. Awaab’s Law is named after Awaab Ishak, who tragically died in a social-rented home in Rochdale, following health problems caused by excessive damp and mould in the property. The landlord had dismissed complaints from the tenants, suggesting that the problems were being caused by the tenant’s own use of the property.
Cllr Kieron Wilson, BCP Council's Portfolio Holder with responsibility for Housing, said: “We’re not just ready for Awaab’s Law, we’re already living its principles, and I’m proud to say our teams are delivering well above the required standards.
"From rapid response times and same-day mould treatment to smart reporting and cross-service support for vulnerable residents, we’ve built a robust, resident-focused approach.
"Our average attendance time is under six days, and preventative works begin in just over nine days, far ahead of the 12-week requirement. This is a testament to the dedication of our staff and the strength of our systems.”
Helping resident live a high quality and healthy life is a council priority and reports of damp and mould in properties are taken seriously.
When a problem is reported, the council take a proactive approach, including:
Emergency hazards investigated and resolved within 24 hours
Significant hazards investigated within 10 days, with repairs and reports completed swiftly
Same-day mould treatment and preventative works started in just over 9 days
Smart reporting tools and feedback systems to improve service
Cross-service support for vulnerable residents
Tenants who have concerns about damp or mould in their home should contact the council as soon as possible - especially if it’s affecting their health or that of someone in their household - by calling 0800 028 1870.