Why Housing Associations Need the Right Data Specialists

By Harry Preen, Team Leader for Housing Data at Gravitas

With Awaab's Law coming into force on 27 October 2025, there are strict new timescales that change how Housing Associations operate particularly when it comes to Data and how systems need to improve. This legislation is sadly named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak who tragically died from mould exposure in his home.

The changes mean potential damp and mould hazards must be investigated within 2 weeks. If major issues are found, properties have to be made safe within five working days.

Key points we discuss

• Data specialists are needed to build predictive systems that prevent issues before they become formal complaints.
• Integrated data architecture gives access to property history, repair patterns and tenant vulnerability within compliance timescales.
• Housing Associations with robust systems have seen repair times and tenant satisfaction scores improve.

The data problem with compliance

Our recent report “Preparing for Awaab’s Law: Systems and Data” reveals the truth. As the report says, organisations need more than good intentions – they need sophisticated data systems that can support quick decision making and seamless communication.

It all comes down to three things: good data infrastructure, data specialists and systems that enable predictive maintenance not reactive responses.

Building the foundation: data architecture for rapid response

The report outlines how leading housing associations are implementing shared architecture approaches using cloud platforms like AWS and Azure Fabric. These systems process data through bronze (raw), silver (transformed) and gold (machine learning) layers - enabling organisations to move from reactive repairs to proactive intervention.

Consider the operational reality: when a tenant reports potential damp issues, housing teams need immediate access to property history, previous repair patterns, environmental data and tenant vulnerability information. Without integrated data systems, even the most well-intentioned teams struggle to meet Awaab's Law timeframes.

Predictive analytics: the game-changer

The most forward-thinking housing associations are already using data analytics to identify high-risk properties and predict seasonal condensation risks. This enables targeted tenant engagement ahead of problem periods - transforming how organisations prevent rather than simply respond to damp and mould issues.

One particularly innovative approach involves analysing building archetypes, heating systems and repair histories to guide targeted interventions. Teams are using this intelligence to time tenant communications strategically that prevent issues before they escalate.

The skills gap crisis

Housing disrepair claims are on the rise and have been for a few years now. Awaab’s Law will only add to this. But the sector is short of Data professionals who understand both housing management and advanced analytics.

Our Gravitas report says this is one of the biggest challenges facing the sector. Housing Associations need Data Specialists who can design systems for compliance, build predictive models and ensure seamless integration between repair management systems and tenant communication systems.

Technology integration: beyond basic systems

Awaab’s Law compliance requires more than just upgraded housing management systems. Organisations need specialists who can integrate environmental monitoring technologies, implement AI driven diagnostic tools and create automated communication workflows that keep tenants informed throughout the repair process.

The report shows how technical diagnostic scripting improves inspection accuracy and detailed questioning during initial calls reduces unnecessary visits and speeds up repairs. But these innovations require Data Specialists who understand the technical requirements and the operational reality of housing management.

The business case

The cost of non-compliance goes far beyond the threat of legal action. Poor data management means inefficient resource allocation, repeat site visits and long disrepair cases that damage tenant relationships and organisational reputation.

Also, organisations with robust data systems and skilled specialists see big improvements in repair times, tenant satisfaction and overall operational efficiency. They’re also better able to demonstrate compliance if legal challenges arise.

Strategic recruitment

Associations need Data professionals with specific skills including:

• Housing management systems expertise - Knowledge of platforms like Orchard, Aareon or Capita (although not essential depending on the role).
• Predictive analytics - Ability to build models that identify high risk properties and seasonal patterns.
• Vulnerability assessment - Be able to integrate tenant health data with environmental monitoring.
• Automated workflow design - Experience of creating seamless communication systems that keep tenants informed.

The best hires combine technical skills with sector knowledge, with their understanding that housing data isn’t just about system efficiency, it’s about getting vulnerable tenants support on time and repairs that fix the root cause not the symptom. However, some positions can be successfully filled by Data professionals with experience outside of the sector, with transferable skills, helping to address some of the talent shortage – it’s important to understand when experience is needed.

At Gravitas, we have a proven track record of placing candidates in Housing IT roles. Our Data team regularly source professionals who can navigate the complexities of industry technology and the regulatory landscape.

Looking ahead: future-proofing for growing requirements

Awaab’s Law will expand over the next few years as follows:

• 2026 expansion - Excess cold or heat, structural collapse, fire, electrical and hygiene hazards
• 2027 full implementation - All remaining Housing Health and Safety Rating System hazards (except overcrowding)
• Operational scaling - Each phase will multiply the data processing and response coordination requirements

Housing Associations that invest in data systems and skilled staff now will be ahead of the game. Those that delay will be forever playing catch up.

The bottom line

Awaab’s Law is more than compliance - it’s a transformation opportunity. Housing Associations that get the role of data systems and invest in specialist talent will not only meet the law but will improve their service delivery.

The question isn’t whether to invest in data capabilities, it’s how quickly can organisations find and hire the specialists to build systems that protect tenants, comply with the law and future proof the organisation.

For Housing Associations serious about Awaab’s Law compliance the message is clear: Data Specialists aren’t a luxury - they’re an operational essential.

Need help hiring the right specialists?

For help with your Housing Data hiring requirements, connect with me (Harry Preen) on LinkedIn here), or contact me using our online form and I’ll be in touch to help.

Or request Housing Data salary or pay rate benchmarking here, to help you assess and position your hiring approach.