Excessive heat can make homes uncomfortable, particularly during periods of warm weather. This page explains when excess heat may be a housing issue, what landlords are responsible for, and what tenants can do if they are affected.
Landlord responsibility
There is no requirement for landlords to provide air conditioning or to maintain a maximum indoor temperature within a rented home.
Landlords must ensure the home is fit for habitation and free from serious hazards. Hot weather alone is not normally considered a repair issue that a landlord is required to resolve.
When a landlord may need to take action
A landlord may be responsible if excess heat is caused or made worse by disrepair within the property.
Examples include:
Windows that are broken, painted shut or cannot be opened safely
Faulty ventilation systems provided in the property
Defective extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms
Repair issues that prevent adequate ventilation of the home
In these cases, the landlords responsibility relates to the disrepair rather than the temperature itself.
What landlords are not normally required to do
Landlords are not generally required to:
Install air conditioning
Provide fans
Install blinds, curtains, shutter or awnings where no previously existed
Carry out improvements solely because a property becomes hot during warm weather
Upgrade the design of a property to reduce overheating where no disrepair is present
What can you do to reduce heat in your home
Simple measures that may help keep your home cooler include:
Keep curtains, blinds and windows closed on the sunny side of the property during the hottest part of the day
Open windows when outside temperatures are lower, such as overnight or early morning
Use fans to improve air circulation
Stay hydrated and avoid activities that generate excess heat indoors where possible
Follow public health advice during periods of hot weather
For further information, visit Beat the Heat
If you think a repair problem is contributing to excess heat
If you believe that there is a repair issue preventing adequate ventilation or contributing to overheating:
Report the problem to you landlord or managing agent as soon as possible
Make your report in writing and keep a copy
Keep a record of:
The repair issue
How it affects ventilation in the property
Any communication with the landlord or agent
Providing clear information about the disrepair will help you landlord investigate and arrange any necessary repairs
If your landlord does not take action
If you have reported the issues and your landlord has failed to take appropriate action you may be able to seek further advice or make a housing conditions complaint