Winter is here, and that means plummeting temperatures, inside and out. It's no doubt that heat makes living through the chilliest months of the year easier to bear. While most people think of heating and air conditioning as modern conveniences, not every property will have an ideal setup. In some rentals, air conditioning and heating may not be available at all.
Heat is Required
In Calfiornia, a functioning heating system is required for a rental property to be considered legally habitable. The landlord is also required to maintain and repair heating systems. Of course, there are exceptions. If Fido gets to gnawing on a radiator, you could be responsible for the damage and repair work.
Optional Air Conditioning
While heating is required for habitable living in California, air conditioning is legally not. If an air conditioner is included on move-in day, though, you can expect to continue using it as part of your lease. Ask for clarification about air conditioning options when touring any prospective rental.
-- Scott Safadi, Cal Bay Property Management
