The UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has dismissed recent media claims that air conditioning is being banned in homes across the country, clarifying that residents remain free to install units in both new and existing properties.
The government intervention follows widespread reporting suggesting that strict new rules would prevent homeowners from utilizing cooling systems. MHCLG confirmed that in the vast majority of cases, planning permission is not required to install air conditioning in smaller homes, provided the unit does not materially alter the external appearance of the building.
While there is no blanket national restriction, the ministry advised residents to consult their local authorities to confirm specific guidelines, adding that councils are expected to apply a common-sense approach to managing local community and environmental interests.
Alongside the clarification, the government highlighted that existing building regulations already mandate that new residential developments—including houses, flats, student housing, and care facilities—must be designed to minimise overheating. Officials are currently reviewing these specific building regulations to ensure they remain effective and proportionate.
In a bid to expand access to low-cost cooling and heating, the government also announced that it is widening the scope of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Eligible homeowners and private landlords in England and Wales can now access a £2,500 grant for air-to-air heat pumps, which are capable of both heating a home in winter and cooling it during summer months.
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.”
