MA S1013

Landlords cannot prohibit tenants from installing portable cooling devices (window AC units, floor-standing units, evaporative coolers) unless specific safety exceptions apply, such as building code violations, inadequate electrical capacity, or blocking emergency egress

Condominium governing documents that restrict portable cooling devices are void and unenforceable, with similar safety exceptions for code violations, interference with common elements, or buildings with central AC

Landlords may require written restrictions including professional installation/removal, inspection rights, removal during October 1 through April 30, proper drainage, and fall-prevention measures

When electrical capacity limits the number of allowed devices in a building, landlords must prioritize tenants who need cooling to accommodate a disability

Requires the Department of Housing and Community Development and Department of Public Health to study whether to apply for federal LIHEAP funding for cooling assistance, with findings due by July 1, 2024