How Ongo is preparing for the next phase of Awaab’s Law

Ongo is reassuring tenants that it will be well prepared for phase 2 of Awaab's Law, which comes into force on 30 November 2026. Introduced following the death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020, the law is in place to ensure social housing landlords investigate and resolve hazards, including damp and mould, within set timescales. As part of the next phase, the new requirements expand to cover issues including excess cold and heat, fire and electrical hazards, structural risks, hygiene concerns and other serious health hazards. At Ongo, preparations for these changes are already well underway. Over the past year, Ongo has continued to improve the way it manages damp, mould and condensation, listening to customer feedback and strengthening its processes. Once a damp and mould case is completed, tenants are asked for feedback through a satisfaction survey and receive a follow-up text message six weeks later to check the issue has not returned. This helps the team act quickly if any further support is needed. In the last 11 months, Ongo has:

• Raised 1,292 damp and mould cases.
• Resolved 735 cases.
• Completed 1,436 damp and mould-related repairs.
• Carried out inspections within an average of 9.75 working days.
• Sent 99% of inspection summaries within three working days.

Mark Tasker, Damp, Mould and Disrepair Manager at Ongo said: "The safety and wellbeing of our tenants is our highest priority. We're already working to meet the requirements of Phase 2 of Awaab's Law and have made significant improvements to how we respond to damp and mould issues. "We want tenants to feel confident that when they report a problem, we'll take it seriously, communicate clearly and take action. The new legislation supports the high standards we expect of ourselves, and we're ready for the changes ahead." As winter approaches, Ongo is encouraging tenants to report any signs of damp or mould as soon as possible. They will also continue sharing practical advice on preventing condensation through good ventilation, heating and insulation. Anyone experiencing damp or mould in their home can report it through Ongo's website at: www.ongo.co.uk/manage-your-home/repairs-and-maintenance/damp-mould-and-condensation/