Bill > HB153

This bill mandates that landlords of residential rental apartments in buildings with four or more units must provide air-conditioning, with specific exceptions for historic properties, certain Baltimore City Housing Authority developments, and specific rowhouse public housing units. The requirement for new construction begins on June 1, 2026, and for units undergoing renovation that includes electrical or heating system upgrades, it begins on October 1, 2026. From June 1 to September 30 each year, landlords must ensure that air-conditioning systems, whether tenant-controlled or not, maintain a temperature no higher than 80 degrees Fahrenheit at three feet above the floor in habitable spaces, unless necessary for maintenance. The bill also clarifies that it applies prospectively, meaning it will not affect construction or renovation permits issued before its effective date of June 1, 2026.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0153?ys=2026RS