Awaab's Law: Guidance for landlords in Scotland
This guidance is intended to assist social and private landlords to comply with
their duties under the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026 which come into force on 6 October 2026.
Annex A: Publicly provided Gypsy/Traveller sites
The 2026 Regulations do not apply to publicly provided Gypsy/Traveller sites that fall outside the scope of the Right to Repair Scheme. While landlords of such sites are therefore not subject to the statutory duties set out in the 2026 Regulations, Annex C which has been added to the Minimum Site Standards Guidance sets out responsibilities we expect landlords to meet in relation to the prompt investigation and remediation of damp and mould, to which the principles of this guidance may be of assistance.
From 6 October 2026, this includes:
If a site provider is made aware of a potential damp or mould issue, they should investigate the issue to determine whether the accommodation is substantially free from damp and mould and whether any repair work is necessary. This should be conducted by competent person within 10 working days. Site providers may wish to consider chapters 3 and 4.
Following the conclusion of an investigation, the site provider should issue a written summary of the investigation findings to the tenant within 3 working days. Site providers may wish to consider chapter 5.
If substantial damp or mould is identified, the site provider should look to commence repair work within 5 working days after the day in which the investigation is concluded. This could include immediate mould treatment or other temporary remedial work. Site providers may wish to consider chapter 6.
If a site provider is unable to meet the timescales due to reasons beyond their control, they should update their tenant to tell them why they are not able to meet the timescales and provide a new revised timescale. Site providers may wish to consider chapter 2.
Existing monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, as outlined within the Minimum Standards Site Guidance would apply.