Air Conditioning in London Rentals: what are your options?

Can you have air conditioning in a rented flat in London? It’s one of the questions we’re hearing more than ever.

As London’s summers become warmer and heatwaves more frequent, many renters, particularly those relocating from overseas, are surprised to discover that air conditioning isn’t a standard feature in most homes.

If you’re used to air-conditioned apartments in the US, Australia, the Middle East or parts of Asia, London’s housing stock can come as something of a shock. Most flats simply weren’t designed with cooling in mind.

The good news? While installing a permanent air conditioning system isn’t usually an option for tenants, there are several practical ways to stay cool and comfortable during the warmer months.

Why don’t London homes have Air Conditioning?

The simple answer is that they never really needed it.

The UK’s climate has traditionally been mild, with relatively short summers and only occasional periods of very hot weather. Homes were designed to retain heat during the colder months rather than keep it out during the summer.

Many of London’s properties are Victorian or Edwardian conversions, while others are purpose-built apartment blocks dating back several decades. Both were constructed long before air conditioning became a common household feature.

Today, built-in air conditioning is still relatively rare, although it’s becoming more common in luxury developments and some newer apartment buildings.

Can you install Air Conditioning in a London rental property?

In most cases, not without your landlord’s written permission.

Permanent air conditioning systems require installation work, including wall-mounted indoor units, external condenser units and electrical connections. These alterations are usually prohibited unless the landlord agrees.

Even if your landlord is happy to approve the installation, many apartment buildings have additional rules set by the freeholder or managing agent. External units may not be permitted because of noise, appearance or planning restrictions, particularly in conservation areas or listed buildings.

For most tenants, installing a fixed air conditioning system simply isn’t practical.

If you’re unfamiliar with tenancy agreements in England, it’s worth understanding what alterations are permitted before signing your lease. Simply London’s article on “Are Rental Agreements Always the Same?” explains why every tenancy agreement should be read carefully.

Portable Air Conditioners: the best option for most renters

For the vast majority of tenants, a portable air conditioner is the simplest and most practical solution.

These freestanding units sit inside the room and plug into a standard electrical socket. Warm air is vented through a flexible hose that fits into an open window using a removable sealing kit, meaning there’s no permanent alteration to the property.

One of the biggest advantages is that you can take the unit with you when you move.

Advantages

• No permanent installation required
• Usually no landlord permission needed
• Can be moved between rooms
• Easy to take to your next property
• Ideal for renters

Things to Consider

Portable air conditioners aren’t perfect.

Compared with fixed systems they can:

• Generate more noise
• Take up floor space
• Use more electricity
• Cool one room rather than an entire flat

However, for many renters they’re an excellent compromise and can make sleeping much more comfortable during a London heatwave.

What about window air conditioners?

If you’re relocating from North America, you may be wondering why you don’t see traditional window-mounted air conditioners in London.

The answer is simple: they’re generally not compatible with UK homes.

Most London properties have sash, casement or tilt-and-turn windows that aren’t designed to support window-mounted units. In addition, many apartment buildings prohibit anything being attached to or projecting from the outside of the building.

Portable air conditioners are therefore the preferred option for most tenants.

Other ways to keep your flat cool

Even if you don’t have air conditioning, there are several ways to reduce indoor temperatures.

You can:

• Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day.
• Open windows early in the morning and later in the evening when outside temperatures are cooler.
• Use fans to improve airflow throughout the property.
• Install thermal blackout curtains, particularly in south-facing rooms.
• Choose lightweight bedding and breathable fabrics during the summer months.

These simple changes can make a noticeable difference, particularly in older London properties.

If Air Conditioning matters, mention it early

If you’re relocating to London and know that air conditioning is important to you, tell your relocation consultant or letting agent at the very start of your property search.

While properties with built-in cooling remain relatively uncommon, they’re much easier to find if your search is focused from the beginning.

Air conditioning is most often found in:

• Luxury apartment developments
• New-build properties
• Serviced apartments
• High-end penthouses

Mentioning your priorities early helps avoid viewing unsuitable properties and makes the search far more efficient.

If you’re planning your move, our article on How Much Time Does It Take to Secure a Rental Property in London? explains when to start searching and how to prepare.

Should you tell your Landlord about a portable Air Conditioner?

Although portable air conditioners don’t usually require permission, it’s always worth mentioning it to your landlord or managing agent.

If you’ll be using a window sealing kit or leaving the unit in place for several months, keeping everyone informed helps avoid misunderstandings and demonstrates that you’re taking good care of the property.

Frequently Asked Questions

> Can I install air conditioning in a rented flat in London?

In most cases, no. Permanent air conditioning systems require your landlord’s written permission because they involve alterations to the property. Some apartment buildings also have additional restrictions on external units.

> Do I need my landlord’s permission for a portable air conditioner?

Usually not. Portable air conditioners don’t permanently alter the property and can be removed when you move out. However, it’s always sensible to let your landlord know if you’ll be using one.

> Are portable air conditioners effective?

Yes. They’re particularly effective at cooling individual rooms, making them ideal for bedrooms or home offices during warmer weather.

> How much does a portable air conditioner cost to run?

Running costs depend on the unit’s size, efficiency and your electricity tariff. They use more electricity than a standard fan, so many people choose to run them only during the hottest parts of the day or overnight.

> Which London properties are most likely to have built-in air conditioning?

You’ll most commonly find air conditioning in luxury apartment developments, new-build properties, serviced apartments and premium penthouses. Older period properties rarely include it.

> Can I use a window air conditioner in London?

In most cases, no. Traditional window-mounted air conditioners aren’t suitable for the majority of UK windows and are often prohibited by building management.

> What’s the best way to keep a London flat cool without air conditioning?

Keeping curtains closed during the day, ventilating the property during cooler hours, using fans and installing thermal blackout curtains can all help reduce indoor temperatures.

> Should I tell my letting agent that I want air conditioning?

Definitely. If air conditioning is important to your comfort, make it one of your search criteria from the outset. Although it may reduce the number of available properties, it helps your relocation consultant focus on homes that genuinely meet your needs.

Final thoughts

London’s summers are changing, and so are renters’ expectations.

While built-in air conditioning is still relatively uncommon, there are plenty of practical ways to stay comfortable. Portable air conditioners have become an increasingly popular solution for renters, and if cooling is a priority, mentioning it early in your property search can make all the difference.

How Simply London can help

At Simply London, we know that comfort means different things to different people. For some, it’s being close to an excellent school. For others, it’s outside space, a pet-friendly building, or simply a bedroom that’s cool enough to sleep in during a London heatwave.

Whatever matters most to you, we’ll make sure it’s built into your property search from the very beginning, helping you find a home that’s not just suitable on paper, but genuinely enjoyable to live in.

Read more about our Home search services, and contact us today!