Are Tennessee landlords required to provide air conditioning?

JACKSON, Tenn. — With rising summer temperatures and the occasional heat wave, staying cool is essential for a safe and enjoyable summer. The Better Business Bureau has some tips to keep you cool.

“Always know in the summertime to stay on top of repairs and maintenance that heat-proof your home, so, of course, getting some of those black-out curtains,” said Toddnetta Trice with the BBB Mid-South. “Also, use caulking, weather stripping to seal gaps and cracks around the doors, windows and outlets to prevent the cool air from escaping or from that hot air from coming in.”

Residents should also ensure their A/C ducts fit snuggly and insulate around any gaps. Trice says there has been a concern among renters whether landlords are required to provide air conditioning in rental units or not.

“In Tennessee, landlords are not required to provide air conditioning in rental units unless it is explicitly stated in the lease agreement that you both signed,” Trice said. “So, the Tennessee Landlord and Tenant Act does not list air conditioning as an essential service that landlords must provide.”

What is included is utilities such as gas, heat, and electricity. For tenants that do not have working air conditioning in their residence, all is not lost.

“If there is an issue with the A/C in the rental property, the tenant is allowed to repair and deduct that cost from the rent: Tenn. Code Ann. §66-28-502. But a tenant does not have a right to withhold rent because of repair problems,” Trice said.

If you are looking for heating and air cooling repair, the BBB has resources to connect you with an accredited business. Click here to learn more.

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