Tenant Rights & Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is just a perk, not a requirement, of your lease.

Air conditioning (AC) isn't always offered with a rental home or apartment. When it is, the tenant is often charged with its maintenance. However, if the air conditioning becomes a safety hazard, then it is the responsibility of the landlord.

Livable Conditions

Landlords are required to provide a space that is livable for the tenant. It must have safe and properly working electricity, plumbing, access points, heating and ventilation systems, according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension website. Air conditioning does not fall on this list as a requirement to make a space livable.

Maintenance Requirement

Although air conditioning is not a requirement, any AC unit that exists in an apartment must be properly maintained. Air conditioning units that fall into disrepair can become a fire hazard or a drain on the home's electrical usage. The resulting safety and burden on the renter make the repair of the unit the landlord's responsibility.

Permission

In hot climates, tenants must get the landlord's permission to install a window unit or remove an existing one.

References

• The Huffington Post: Renters: Renters: Know Your Health Rights
• Virginia Cooperative Extention: Renters Rights and Responsibilities: The Basics
• KATU: Air Conditioners: What Rights Do Renters Have