Support for Tenants
Awaab's Law deadline: 10 working days

Damp and mould at Home Group

If you rent from Home Group and your damp and mould problem has been left unfixed, the law sets clear deadlines for getting it put right, and you may have a claim. Here is what Home Group must do and how to act.

55,000
Home Group homes
24 hours
Emergency repair deadline
10 working days
To investigate a hazard
Depends on your case
Compensation

Why this matters

Home Group's repairs are delivered through a mix of in-house teams and third-party contractors. When repairs fail, tenants can sometimes find that no one party takes ownership. Section 11 puts the duty on the landlord regardless, Home Group can't subcontract its way out of its statutory obligations. Specifically for damp and mould, Respiratory infections (linked to Awaab Ishak's death, December 2020) is a recognised health risk under Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, and Home Group have a legal duty to act.

The legal anchor

Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 gives you the right to repairs in a reasonable time. Under Awaab's Law (in force October 2025), Home Group have a significant-hazard duty under Awaab's Law: 10 working days to investigate, then 5 working days from the end of that investigation to complete the safety work from the moment you reported the problem.

What to gather

  • Photograph every mould patch with a date-stamped phone camera (settings → camera → 'date stamp' on)
  • Keep every email, letter, and text message you've sent to your landlord, even WhatsApp screenshots count
  • Ask your doctor for a written note linking your symptoms to home conditions

Contact: Home Group complaints team (visit their website for the current address)

FAQs

Can I claim against Home Group for damp and mould?

Yes. Home Group have a legal duty under Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. If you've reported the problem and they've ignored you, you can claim compensation and force the repair. How much you could get depends on how long it went on, how serious it was, and any effect on your health.

How long do Home Group have to fix damp and mould?

Under Awaab's Law, Home Group must act within a significant-hazard duty under Awaab's Law: 10 working days to investigate, then 5 working days from the end of that investigation to complete the safety work. If the problem is dangerous (24-hour emergency category), they must act immediately.

What if Home Group have already inspected but done nothing?

An inspection alone doesn't satisfy Awaab's Law. The clock keeps ticking until the repair is done. Keep records of every inspection date and outcome.

Do I need a solicitor to claim against Home Group?

You don't have to use one. You can pursue a complaint yourself. We offer a no-win-no-fee panel of SRA-regulated solicitors. National HA with strong care & support service alongside general needs housing.

Related

Closing thought

National HA with strong care & support service alongside general needs housing. Being a large landlord does not excuse ignoring Awaab's Law. If your home is making you sick, we can help. Call 0800 030 4669 or start your claim online.

Start your claim