A New Era for Healthier Homes: How Awaab’s Law Elevates Material Choice

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In October 2025, Awaab’s Law came into force – a landmark moment for our industry and for everyone who lives in social housing. The law was introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, whose passing was linked to mould and damp in his home. It serves as a powerful reminder that the spaces we help create must do more than just meet regulations; they should actively support healthy living.

The legislation places firm deadlines on social landlords to investigate and fix damp or mould concerns – usually within a fortnight. For many, this demands a shift from reactive maintenance to smarter planning. Keeping buildings healthy now relies on everything from ventilation and moisture management to the durability of the surfaces themselves.

Those of us involved in specifying materials have a huge role to play. In bathrooms, kitchens and busy shared spaces, humidity is inevitable. This means that material choice is no longer only about aesthetics – it’s central to safety, compliance and long-term performance. Robust certification, proven water resistance, easy cleaning, and simple installation all help prevent damp developing in the first place, and therefore reducing risk, disruption and cost later down the line.

At Fibo, we’ve long believed that thoughtful material specification is key to healthier homes. Our wall panels offer a fully waterproof surface, secure Aqualock tongue-and-groove joints, and no grout – which removes one of the most common breeding grounds for mould. Panels can also be fitted far quicker than tiles, helping landlords meet tight repair timescales while keeping residents comfortable.

Although Awaab’s Law initially applies to social landlords, it’s clear that similar expectations are coming to the private rental market. Taking a proactive approach now doesn’t just prepare properties for future regulation – it protects tenants, reduces maintenance issues, and builds trust.

Together, we can set a new standard for healthier homes.