Awaab’s Law: The Tragic Wake-Up Call for Housing Safety
Mould and damp are more than just unsightly issues—they can be deadly. For too long, these problems have been overlooked or inadequately addressed in social and private housing, leaving countless families exposed to serious health risks. Sometimes, change comes only after the unthinkable happens.
The Heartbreaking Story Behind Awaab’s Law
In December 2020, two-year-old Awaab Ishak tragically lost his life to a respiratory condition caused by prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s social housing flat in Rochdale. A place meant to shelter him instead became the cause of his death.
The coroner called Awaab’s death “a defining moment,” and it spurred the Government to act. Awaab’s Law, now part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Bill, requires landlords to investigate and address mould and damp within strict timeframes. It also empowers the Housing Ombudsman to enforce compliance. This tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for systemic change to ensure no family endures such a loss again.
Understanding the Causes of Mould
Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces. Common culprits include:
- Leaking roofs, gutters, or pipes.
- High-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens without proper ventilation.
- Blocked vents or outlets from appliances.
- Furniture pressed against uninsulated walls, trapping moisture.
These issues are often preventable with proactive maintenance, but when left unchecked, they create environments where mould can flourish, threatening both health and home.
Beyond Cleaning: Eradicating Mould for Good
Removing mould isn’t just about appearances—it’s about protecting lives. Simply scrubbing it away isn’t enough; untreated spores can linger, posing ongoing health risks and encouraging regrowth.
That’s why it’s vital to use an effective, safe solution. PURA+ offers a powerful two-step approach to mould removal and prevention:
- Encapsulation and Removal: It tackles mould at its source, neutralizing spores and allergens without harming surfaces or requiring redecoration.
- Long-Term Protection: After cleaning, it creates an invisible antimicrobial barrier that prevents mould from returning, safeguarding homes and their occupants.
Unlike many biocides, PURA+ is non-toxic and safe for residents, including children, the elderly, and those with compromised health. Operatives don’t need specialist PPE, and there’s no need to evacuate the property during treatment.
A Safer, Healthier Future
The tragedy of Awaab Ishak reminds us of the devastating consequences of neglecting housing safety. With solutions like PURA+, landlords can take meaningful steps to prevent mould and damp, ensuring homes remain safe havens—not sources of harm.
More than 100 UK housing groups trust PURA+ for its effectiveness and safety. As one housing provider shared:
"Really easy to use, no unpleasant fumes, and no damage to decoration. I was shocked by how effective it was." – Vivid Homes
Let’s honour Awaab’s legacy by committing to safer, healthier homes for all. If you’re ready to take action against mould, we’re here to help.
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