Preparing for Awaab’s Law Phase 2

We are currently preparing for Awaab’s Law Phase 2 which will take effect on 30 November 2026. It will include the following hazards, where they present a significant risk of harm: 

  • Excess cold/ homes that are too cold
  • Excess heat / homes that are too hot
  • Falls on the level / trip hazards e.g. damaged flooring or unsafe stairs
  • Structural safety concerns, including risk of collapse
  • Fire-related hazards
  • Electrical hazards, such as exposed wiring
  • Domestic hygiene (including personal, hygiene, drainage and food safety). 

 

These new regulations mean that Accent must take action in the following situations:

For emergency hazards

Where there is an immediate and significant risk to your health or safety, we must investigate and make the situation safe within 24 hours of becoming aware of the issue.

Examples include:

  • A suspected gas leak
  • Serious electrical dangers
  • Structural issues that could cause injury 

 

For potential significant hazards

A ‘significant hazard’ is something that poses a significant risk of harm to the health or safety of those living in the property. For these non-emergency hazards, we must investigate the issue within 10 working days of becoming aware.

We will provide a written summary of our findings within 3 working days of completing the investigation. We will complete any immediate and required safety work within 5 working days of the investigation. We will begin any work needed to prevent a significant or emergency hazard recurring within 5 working days of the investigation.

We must complete any extra works within a reasonable period, and secure alternative housing for customers if needed, at our expense, if safety work cannot be completed within the required timeframes. We will keep customers updated throughout the process.

You can read more about Awaab’s Law Phase 2 here.