Does my landlord have to provide air conditioning?

When summer temperatures rise, keeping your home cool can become a priority. If you're renting, you might be wondering whether your landlord has to provide air conditioning, or whether you can arrange to have a system installed yourself.

The answer can depend on the property, your tenancy or occupation contract and where you live.

Here's what tenants in England, Northern Ireland and Wales should consider before installing air conditioning in a rented home.

Does a landlord have to install air conditioning?

Generally, a landlord isn't required to install air conditioning simply because a tenant asks for it. However, landlords do have responsibilities relating to the condition and safety of the homes they let, and the rules differ between England, Northern Ireland and Wales.

In England, the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is used to identify and assess potential risks to people's health and wellbeing in residential properties.

In Wales, landlords have an obligation to ensure rented homes are fit for human habitation. The Welsh Government's guidance specifically identifies exposure to excessively high temperatures as one of the matters that should be considered when determining whether a property is fit for human habitation.

In Northern Ireland, rented accommodation must meet minimum fitness standards, including requirements relating to areas such as heating and ventilation.

So, while a hot summer's day doesn't automatically mean your landlord needs to provide air conditioning, you should speak to your landlord or letting agent if excessive temperatures are causing serious concerns about the condition or safety of your rented home.

Can you install air conditioning in a rented property?

You may be able to pay to have air conditioning installed yourself, but you shouldn't make permanent alterations to a rented property without first speaking to your landlord and obtaining any permission required.

Valerie Bannister, Lettings Technical Director for Reeds Rains, who has more than 40 years' experience in the lettings industry, explains:

There's an important distinction between using a portable air-conditioning unit and installing a permanent system.

A portable unit that doesn't require any alterations to the property may be relatively straightforward. A permanently fitted system, on the other hand, could involve drilling through walls and installing both internal and external equipment.

Even if you're prepared to cover all the costs yourself, you should get your landlord's written permission before arranging any permanent installation.

What might your landlord consider?

If you ask for permission to install air conditioning, your landlord is likely to want more information before making a decision.

This could include:

• the type of air-conditioning system you want to install
• where the internal and external equipment would be positioned
• how the system would be fitted
• whether the work could affect the property's structure or appearance
• who will carry out the installation
• whether any additional permissions or approvals are required.

Flats, apartments and properties in shared buildings can involve additional considerations.

Valerie explains:

Planning requirements and property ownership arrangements can vary between England, Northern Ireland and Wales, so landlords and tenants should establish what applies to the individual property before proceeding.

Your landlord may also want detailed information about the proposed work.

For that reason, don't commit to an installer or installation date until you've received the necessary consent and understand any conditions attached to it.

What happens to the air conditioning when you move out?

Installation isn't necessarily the only cost you need to consider.

Your landlord may agree to a permanent air-conditioning system being fitted on the condition that it's removed at the end of your tenancy or occupation contract and the property is returned to its previous condition.

As Valerie explains:

Before installing anything, make sure you agree in writing what will happen when you leave.

For example, will the air-conditioning system remain at the property, or will you be responsible for removing it? And if it's removed, who will pay to repair holes, plasterwork, decoration or any other changes resulting from the installation?

Getting this agreed beforehand can help avoid uncertainty at the end of your tenancy.

What if your landlord says no?

If your landlord doesn't agree to a permanent air-conditioning installation, there are other ways you may be able to keep your rented home cooler without making alterations.

You could consider a portable air-conditioning unit or fans, provided they're suitable and safe to use in the property.

Other simple measures can include keeping curtains or blinds closed when direct sunlight is strongest and ventilating your home when the temperature outside is cooler.

However, if the problem goes beyond normal summer heat and you're concerned that temperatures in your home could be affecting your health or safety, report your concerns to your landlord or letting agent.

Looking for a home to rent?

Whether you're searching for your next rental property or already renting through Reeds Rains, we're here to help.

Search for properties to rent or find your local Reeds Rains branch for more information and support.

FAQs

Does my landlord have to provide air conditioning?
Generally, landlords aren’t required to provide air conditioning simply because a tenant requests it. However, landlords have responsibilities relating to the condition and safety of rented homes, with requirements varying across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Can I install air conditioning in a rented property?
Potentially, but you should get your landlord’s written permission before making permanent alterations to the property. Check your tenancy agreement or occupation contract before arranging any work.

Do I need permission for a portable air conditioner?
A portable unit that doesn’t require alterations to the property may be more straightforward. However, it’s worth checking your tenancy agreement or occupation contract for any relevant restrictions.

Who pays to install air conditioning in a rented home?
If you request air conditioning for your own benefit, your landlord may agree to an installation on the condition that you cover the costs. Make sure responsibilities and costs are agreed in writing beforehand.

Will I have to remove the air conditioning when I move out?
Possibly. Your landlord may require you to remove the system and return the property to its previous condition, which could include paying for plastering, decorating or other remedial work.