AC requirements in Austin

How Long Do Landlords Have to Fix a Faulty AC in Austin?

As of July 10, 2025, all rental properties must ensure that each “habitable” space within can be cooled to at least 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’ve just added air conditioning to a rental property, you must learn your new obligations. If your property already has AC, you must comply with the new rules. Let’s dive into what this new rule means for landlords to ensure you’re compliant with AC requirements in Austin. 

Habitable Spaces

Unfinished basements and attics do not have to have air conditioning. Habitable spaces include any areas of the property where tenants relax, sleep, eat, or cook. Spaces must be cooled to 15 degrees lower than the outside temperature or at least 85 degrees. 

This includes: 

Living room

Kitchen 

Dining room

Bedroom

Finished basements

And more

Central AC Isn’t Required

Installing central AC is costly and challenging in older rental properties. Not to worry, as mini-splits and window units are sufficient. Portable AC units are also an option. However, the cooling capabilities of portable units are limited and ideal for small rooms.

Tips For Mini-Splits and Window AC Units

Many property owners have installed mini-split units or window units as an alternative to central AC. Mini-splits are quieter and provide more efficient cooling than window units. Both models drip condensation runoff outside of the house, and if not installed properly, will drip inside of the house. You can find models that heat and cool. 

Select energy-efficient models that tenants can manage remotely from their phones or smart home panel.

Provide tenants with instructions for cleaning the filter and running self-cleaning mode.

Ensure the BTU of each mini-split or window unit is high enough to accommodate the square footage of each room. Go a bit higher for units close to the kitchen.

If the living room, kitchen, and dining room floor plan is open, you may need 2 or more units. Place strategically for ultimate cooling. Each bedroom requires at least 1 unit. 

For window units, consider upgrading window frames to a frame with slots designed to accommodate AC units. This makes installation and removal fast and easy. 

Ensure mini-splits have proper runoff outside of the home and consider adding an awning or weatherproof cover to the external component. 

Unless they have heating capabilities, window units must be uninstalled in the fall as their components aren’t designed to withstand winter weather. You may need to arrange storage if the tenant doesn’t have storage space.

Professionally clean and service units no less than once a year. Every 6 months for units that face high-dust areas.

How Quickly Do Landlords Need to Respond to AC Repairs in Austin?

With the new AC requirements in Austin, landlords must respond promptly to AC maintenance requests. Repair needs that pose a health or safety concern must be resolved in 3 days or less. This includes leaking refrigerant, electrical issues, and units leaking indoors. Non-emergent repairs must be resolved within 7 days, but the sooner the better to keep tenants happy.

If it’s been more than a year, schedule preventative maintenance for your AC (and other appliances). This catches minor repair needs before they escalate, minimizing the likelihood of a broken AC. It’s also a service that pays itself back by prolonging the life of your HVAC system and helping your tenant keep their energy bill low.

Ensure Compliance with AC Repairs in Austin

Stetson Property Management provides compliant processing of maintenance and repair requests. This eliminates the stress of knowing who to call when repair needs arise. We have a tenured network of reliable service providers who understand the urgency required to keep tenants safe, happy, and comfortable. We facilitate the installation of initial units, seasonal installation and removal of AC units, and as-needed maintenance and repairs.

Reach out to learn more about partnering with Stetson!