Housing Ombudsman warns Lewisham Council for “severe maladministration”. Awaab’s Law requires social landlords to fix serious damp and mould within strict time limits.
A family in South London has been forced to live with over seven months of persistent mould and damp in their two-bedroom flat, prompting an investigation by the Housing Ombudsman. The report found that Lewisham Council failed to follow its own policies for vulnerable tenants and did not plan or communicate repairs in a timely manner.
The Ombudsman criticised the council for severe maladministration and called for urgent improvements.
Awaab’s Law took effect on 27 October 2025
The new legislation imposes clear and legally binding duties on social housing providers:
- Emergency hazards must be addressed within 24 hours.
- Serious damp and mould complaints must be inspected within 10 working days.
- If a risk is identified, landlords must make the home safe within five days and provide written updates to tenants.
Failure to comply may result in court action, enforcement penalties, and claims for compensation.
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Source: MyLondon – https://tinyurl.com/3svfza92