The introduction of Awaab’s Law marks a vital moment in the conversation around damp, mould and indoor air quality. As a company dedicated to improving the air people live and breathe in, we welcome this renewed focus on how our surroundings affect health and wellbeing.
Damp and mould are more than just cosmetic problems. They can cause structural damage to buildings, raise energy costs and, most importantly, pose health risks to those living inside. Following the introduction of Awaab’s Law on 27 October 2025, we want to help landlords, tenants and homeowners understand how simple humidity control can make a lasting difference in keeping our homes safe, healthy and energy efficient.
What is Awaab’s Law and why does it matter?
Awaab’s Law was introduced after the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died as a result of prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s social housing flat. The new legislation, part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, places strict legal duties on social landlords to investigate and resolve reports of damp and mould within specific timeframes.
The government also plans to extend similar standards to the private rented sector through the forthcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, acknowledging that poor air quality and mould can affect any home, regardless of ownership.
We believe this is an essential step forward in ensuring that everyone, whether renting or owning, has the right to a safe and healthy living space. For us at Meaco, it reinforces what we’ve always stood for: helping people maintain comfortable, energy-efficient and healthy homes through effective air treatment solutions.
Why damp and mould take hold in UK properties
According to the English Housing Survey, around 3.8 million homes in England show signs of damp or mould. These problems are especially common during the colder months, when windows stay shut and laundry is dried indoors, trapping moisture inside.
Condensation builds up on cold surfaces like walls and windows when warm, moist air meets cooler temperatures. Mould can begin to grow at around 68% relative humidity, and condensation is often a visual giveaway of increased humidity levels. If excess moisture isn’t removed, it provides the perfect breeding ground for mould, allowing spores to settle, spread, and feed on everyday household materials such as wallpaper, plaster, and even soft furnishings. Over time, this can lead not only to unpleasant odours and unsightly stains, but also to potential health concerns, especially for those with allergies or respiratory conditions.
While ventilation is often the first piece of advice, it isn’t always effective long term, particularly when outdoor temperatures are mild and the home isn’t being heated consistently.
Another approach commonly suggested is opening a window, but this could mean letting valuable heat escape and increasing energy bills. That’s why controlling humidity directly is the most reliable way to tackle damp and mould at its source.
Humidity control: A practical way to prevent damp
Managing indoor humidity not only prevents damp and mould from forming but also helps create a more pleasant and energy-efficient living environment. When humidity levels are kept in balance, the air feels lighter, heating systems work more effectively, and household materials like paint, plaster, and woodwork are better protected. It can also reduce that lingering “musty” smell often associated with damp spaces, helping your home feel fresher overall.
The ideal indoor humidity level sits between 50% and 55%RH. At this level, the air feels fresh and easy to breathe, and excess moisture is limited. This means condensation is far less likely to build up on walls and windows. It also prevents damp, which is key to maintaining cleaner, safer air. Plus, 50–55%RH isn’t so dry that it causes irritation, such as a scratchy throat or dry skin.
To maintain this healthy balance, a quality dehumidifier can make all the difference. It actively removes excess moisture from the air, keeping humidity within the optimal range and helping the home feel warmer, more comfortable, and better protected against damp-related issues.
As our CEO Chris Michael explains:
“Awaab’s Law has rightly brought national attention to the dangers of mould in homes. A quality, energy-efficient dehumidifier can make a big difference in a damp home, helping prevent the terrible circumstances that led to Awaab’s death.”
Choosing the right dehumidifier for healthy homes
Not all dehumidifiers are the same, and choosing the right model can make a real difference to both wellbeing and safety. In homes where mould is already present, it’s essential to select a unit with a medical-grade H13 HEPA filter.
Without this type of filtration, a dehumidifier can circulate mould spores through the air, potentially spreading the problem further and increasing health risks. A model with an integrated HEPA filter captures these spores, helping protect you and your family from respiratory irritation and maintaining healthier indoor air.
At Meaco, we design all our air treatment products with the realities of UK homes in mind. Our MeacoDry Arete® range, Europe’s best-selling dehumidifier family, is built specifically for British homes for 15°C or warmer. The Arete® models combine energy-efficient performance, HEPA filtration, and quiet operation, making them ideal for daily use. They automatically adjust humidity levels, help dry laundry faster, and maintain the right indoor balance without the need for constant monitoring.
For unheated or colder spaces such as basements, conservatories or utility rooms, our Meaco DD8L Pro offers powerful performance even below 15°C. Using desiccant technology, it reliably removes moisture while releasing a gentle stream of warm air, helping to raise the room temperature and speed up drying times. Smart app-compatible and user-friendly, the DD8L Pro provides a practical solution for tackling damp in cooler or less frequently used areas of the home.
Reducing energy bills through better moisture control
Energy bills remain a major concern for many households, especially during the colder months. While it may seem counterintuitive, using a dehumidifier can actually reduce heating costs.
Drier air is easier and cheaper to heat than damp air, meaning your central heating doesn’t have to work as hard. By maintaining the right humidity level, you can stay warm more efficiently without increasing energy use. Over time, this not only helps lower bills but also prevents expensive damage to plaster, paintwork, furniture and carpets.
For landlords and homeowners alike, that makes humidity control a simple investment that pays back through improved property protection and lower running costs.
Making compliance with Awaab’s Law easier for landlords
For landlords, particularly those managing multiple properties, Awaab’s Law represents a shift towards proactive care. Damp and mould can develop quietly, and once they take hold, repairs can be costly and disruptive.
Using a reliable dehumidifier can help landlords stay ahead of problems. Portable models like our Arete® series are easy to operate and can be fitted with continuous drainage hoses for maintenance-free running. This means tenants can benefit from consistent humidity control without the hassle of emptying tanks or adjusting settings daily.
Smart features such as live humidity displays and automatic monitoring ensure that the air remains within a healthy range. By integrating these solutions, landlords can provide healthier homes and demonstrate clear steps towards compliance with the new legislation.
A safer future starts with the air we breathe
At Meaco, we believe everyone deserves to live in a home that supports their health and wellbeing. Awaab’s Law serves as a powerful reminder that indoor air quality matters, and that the right technology can help prevent avoidable tragedies.
Our mission has always been to create healthier, more sustainable living environments through products that are efficient, quiet and built to last. Whether it’s the versatile MeacoDry Arete® range for everyday household use or the Meaco DD8L Pro for colder conditions, we continue to innovate so that humidity control is accessible, practical and effective for every type of home.
Through reliable air treatment, thoughtful design and a commitment to efficiency, we are proud to support the intent of Awaab’s Law: ensuring that every home in the UK can be a safe, warm and healthy place to live.
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