On June 3, 2026, Vancouver City Council unanimously adopted a regulatory amendment prohibiting landlords from preventing tenants from using portable air conditioners in their homes.
From now on, a landlord who refuses to allow a tenant to install such a device may face a fine of up to $1,000.
A measure stemming from a 2025 motion
This amendment follows a motion introduced in November 2025 by councillors Sean Orr and Lucy Maloney, who requested the development of a municipal bylaw guaranteeing tenants the right to use a portable cooling device when no other form of air conditioning is provided.
A study commissioned by the City and published in May highlights the scale of the issue:
- nearly 70% of households reported indoor temperatures of 26°C or higher;
- 13% reported temperatures reaching 31°C or more;
- in 2023, 41% of respondents said they had encountered obstacles when purchasing, installing, or using a mechanical cooling device.
Why some buildings previously prohibited these devices
Before this regulatory change, many landlords restricted or prohibited portable air conditioners due to:
- insufficient electrical capacity in older buildings;
- rising energy costs;
- risks of water damage caused by improper installation.
Possible exemptions, but strictly regulated
The City does allow certain exceptions.
A landlord may request an exemption if they demonstrate that their building cannot reasonably accommodate such a device, particularly when:
- installation would require major renovations;
- significant safety concerns are raised.
To obtain this exemption, the landlord must provide supporting documents validated by a certified professional, which will be reviewed by municipal authorities.
A growing trend
Vancouver is not the only jurisdiction adopting this type of measure.
In the United States, several states have already legislated in this direction.
In Washington State, California, and Oregon, landlords generally cannot prevent tenants from installing portable cooling devices.
What about the damages these devices can cause?
If landlords prohibit these air conditioners, it is often because of the numerous damages they have caused in both units and buildings.
1. Risk of water damage
Portable air conditioners produce significant condensation.
Common issues include:
- overflowing reservoirs;
- poor drainage;
- improperly installed drain hoses;
- infiltration into floors, walls, and ceilings.
2. Electrical overheating
A portable air conditioner often consumes 1,000 to 1,500 W.
Risks include:
- overloading an old circuit;
- tripped breakers;
- overheating wires;
- use of non‑compliant extension cords.
3. Improper installation of the exhaust hose
The hose must expel hot air outdoors.
Common problems include:
- installation in a window not designed for it;
- improvised holes in screens or frames;
- hot air returning into the unit;
- rainwater infiltration.
4. Increased risk of mold
A poorly maintained portable air conditioner:
- accumulates moisture;
- creates cold zones where condensation forms;
- promotes mold growth inside the unit.
5. Damage to the building envelope
Some tenants drill into window frames, remove weatherstripping, or leave gaps around the hose.
6. Noise and vibrations
Portable units are noisy, which can lead to neighbour complaints, vibrations on lightweight floors, and continuous noise disturbances.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
https://council.vancouver.ca/20260603/documents/pspc3.pdf
Vancouver now prohibits landlords from banning portable air conditioners
