Are landlords required to provide air conditioning for NC tenants? Here’s the law

Having a functioning air conditioning unit is essential during North Carolina summers.

If you live in an apartment or rental property, not having a reliable AC unit to endure the high temperatures can make it tough to feel comfortable.

So are landlords in North Carolina required to provide renters cooling systems as part of leasing agreements? Here’s what to know.

Do landlords have to provide AC in NC?

North Carolina landlords are not required to provide air conditioning units in their properties.

The law says landlords must provide “fit and habitable” living conditions , including “operable heating facilities capable of heating living areas to 65 degrees Fahrenheit when it is 20 degrees Fahrenheit outside from November 1 through March 31” — but air conditioning doesn’t have to be included.

Is my landlord required to fix my A/C?

Yes, if a landlord includes an air conditioning system in a lease, then they are required to do repairs when notified by a tenant, according to state law.

What if your landlord doesn’t make repairs?

If your landlord fails to make necessary repairs, North Carolina law allows you to seek money damages in the form of rent abatement , according to LawHelpNC.org .

You can file an action in small claims court to obtain a rent rebate, the website says. And having a written notice of repairs can help your case.

“If your notice of repairs is in writing you can keep a record of the date you made the request,” LawHelpNC.org says. “If the landlord refuses to make repairs and you have to go to court, then you can show that the landlord knew of the defects in your house.”

You can also show that the landlord knew of the needed repairs in the following ways:

• You gave written notice to landlord.

• The landlord came to the premises and saw the defects.

• The defects existed when you moved in and the landlord promised to repair them.

• The premises were inspected by the local building inspector, who sent a notice of needed repairs to landlord.

How to keep your apartment cool without an AC unit

In addition to adjusting your thermostat, here are some other recommended methods you use to keep your home cool while saving money on your energy bill:

• Seal any cracks or openings around doors and windows.

• Keep windows covered to avoid more sunlight and heat during the day.

• Turn off ceiling fans if you are not present in the room.

• Use bathroom fans after showers or baths to remove heat and humidity.

• Avoid putting lamps or TV sets near thermostats that may sense extra heat from appliances.

• Make sure air flow from vents are being blocked by furniture and that vents are vacuumed regularly to get rid of any dust buildup.

You can find more information on energy-saving methods from the U.S. Department of Energy online at energy.gov .

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