Houston moves to require working A/C in rentals, closing loophole that allowed screens instead - The Cool Down
Houston has passed a new ordinance requiring working A/C in rental units, closing a loophole that previously allowed window screens as an alternative. Landlords must ensure all rental units have functioning air conditioning systems.
Aforeworn detected this change in the Rental-Housing & Eviction Rules space on July 16, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated High urgency. All Houston landlords and property managers of rental housing should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: Immediately upon enforcement; likely within 30-60 days of ordinance passage.. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors Rental-Housing & Eviction Rules continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
Previously, landlords could provide window screens instead of A/C. Now, working A/C is mandatory in all rental units.
Who it affects
All Houston landlords and property managers of rental housing
What you must do
Install or repair central or window A/C units to meet minimum cooling standards (likely 80°F or lower) in all rental units.
Deadline
Immediately upon enforcement; likely within 30-60 days of ordinance passage.
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