One of the things I hear again and again on the doorstep is how difficult it can be for both tenants and landlords to navigate their rights and responsibilities. Housing is such a fundamental part of people’s wellbeing, and when problems arise — especially damp, mould, or delays in repairs — it can be stressful, confusing, and sometimes even dangerous.
That’s why I was very pleased to support the Council’s motion on Renters’ Rights at our recent meeting.
What’s changing nationally?
On 27 October 2025, two important pieces of legislation came into force:
1️⃣ The first phase of Awaab’s Law
This law was created after the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old who died after prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s home. The new rules introduce strict timeframes for social landlords to investigate and fix damp and mould, ensuring no one in Worcester is left waiting months for essential repairs.
2️⃣ The Renters’ Rights Act
This Act is one of the biggest reforms to renters’ protections in years. It strengthens tenants’ rights, improves clarity around standards, and places obligations on landlords to act quickly when hazards arise. It also brings in more accountability for poor housing conditions.
These changes are welcome — but laws only make a difference if people understand them, and if councils have the capacity to enforce them.
What the motion asks for
- The motion we supported calls for Worcester City Council’s housing officers to:
- Assess how the new legislation will impact residents locally
- Identify whether extra resources or staffing will be needed to make sure we meet our responsibilities
- Report back to the Communities Committee, so we can make informed decisions during the 2026/27 budget process
This is exactly the kind of proactive, practical step that ensures national reforms translate into real improvements for Worcester residents.
Why I supported it
For me, this is about making sure the new rights actually work in practice.
Too many families have struggled with damp, mould, or unclear repairs processes. Too many renters feel unsure where to turn when something goes wrong. And too many landlords — especially the good ones — want clear, reliable guidance so they can do the right thing.
This motion will help the Council:
- Make sure people know their rights
- Make sure landlords know their responsibilities
- Make sure our officers have the tools and time they need to enforce the rules
- And ultimately, help keep Worcester homes safe, warm, and healthy
Good landlords should feel supported. Bad landlords should be held accountable. And renters should feel confident that the law is on their side and their council is ready to help.
What happens next
I look forward to seeing the assessment come to Communities Committee, and I will continue advocating for:
- Strong enforcement
- Clear communication with residents
- And a housing system that treats everyone with fairness and dignity
If you’re a tenant or landlord with questions about the new laws, please feel free to get in touch — I’m always happy to help where I can.
