There has been media coverage this week suggesting that air conditioning is banned in homes. This is incorrect.
Air conditioning can be installed in both existing and new homes.
In most cases, planning permission is not required to install it for a small home if it would not materially affect the appearance of the building from outside.
However, there is no blanket rule. People should speak with their local council to check the rules, and councils should take a common-sense approach. There are other measures in place to make sure people’s homes are cool.
Building regulations already require new residential buildings, including houses, flats, student accommodation, residential care homes and children's homes, to be designed to minimise overheating.
We’re also reviewing the relevant building regulation to ensure it is effective and proportionate.
Alongside this, the government is extending Boiler Upgrade Scheme grants to air-to-air heat pumps, which can cool as well as heat homes. The £2,500 grant will be available to eligible homeowners in England and Wales, including for privately rented properties, helping more households access low-cost cooling and heating systems.
A government spokesperson said:
"Air conditioning units are not banned. They can be installed in both existing and new homes and we expect councils to take a common-sense approach to the rules around this, which are there to manage the interests of communities and the environment.”
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