UK tenants face blame for causing toxic mould and deadly hazards under new rules

Exclusive: lessons from the death of Awaab Ishak in Rochdale ignored, say experts, as environmental health inspectors told to focus on lifestyle

Thousands of renters could be blamed for toxic black mould and other potentially deadly hazards under a government overhaul of the housing enforcement system.

Leaked documents seen by the Observer suggest councils inspecting rented properties will be formally instructed to examine residents' behaviour when deciding whether to take action against landlords over dangerous conditions.