Do landlords have to provide AC and heat? Here’s what the law says. Canva

Do landlords have to provide AC and heat? Here’s what the law says

Credit: Canva

Rent prices seem to be higher than ever right now. 

And with the need for AC during hot summers or heat in the frigid winter, your wallet may be feeling extra empty after bills are due.

But what if you don’t have AC or heat in your rental? Is that illegal? Here’s what landlords lawfully have to provide tenants:

 

Do landlords in Georgia have to provide AC and heat for renters?

Short answer: no. 

Landlords in Georgia do not have to provide tenants with air conditioning or heat. However, if the rental comes with AC or heat, the landlord is responsible for repairs if it breaks.

 

What do landlords have to provide by law?

According to the Georgia “Safe Home Act” that was made into law in July 2024, there is a “minimum ‘duty of habitability’ that requires landlords and property owners to provide tenants with rental housing that is sufficient for habitation and free from health and safety risks.”

Georgia is one of the last states to have passed this law and while it still doesn’t require landlords to give renters AC and heat, it does require them to do the following:

  • The landlord is responsible for maintaining the building structure.
  • They must keep the electric and plumbing systems in running order.
  • The landlord is also responsible for repairing any appliances included in the rental unit.
  • A landlord is responsible for meeting all local ordinances and minimum safety standards.

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with Columbus Ledger-Enquirer.

Tags: Georgia  rent  landlord-tenant laws  landlord  air conditioning  heat  winter  Summer