Awaab's Law - Guidance for tenants in Scotland - Easy Read version
From 6 October 2026, social and private landlords in Scotland must investigate reports of damp and mould, and begin any necessary repairs within set time frames. The Scottish Government has prepared guidance to help tenants understand their rights and responsibilities. This is an Easy Read version.
If you are a Gypsy or Traveller and live on a site provided by a Registered Social Landlord or council
Your landlord must meet similar standards.
If damp or mould is affecting your home. You should follow the same steps to report a problem.
Your site provider has:
- 10 working days to check it
- 3 working days after the check to send you a written report
- if substantial damp or mould is found, 5 working days after the check to start repairs
If you do not agree with the findings, you should contact them and explain why.
If you are not happy with the outcome, you should make a formal complaint.
If you are not happy with the outcome of your complaint, you can raise a complaint with the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO). The same way as tenants with social rent agreements.
If the problem affects a lot of people on the site you can report it to the Scottish Housing Regulator.