--73.197.xxx.xxx

Pretty vague. Do you have a temp or humidity level that triggers the "must run" clauses? Even here in the humid south, I don't think we could require someone run the HVAC unless we were paying for it. --50.82.xxx.xxx

I would think it would be enforceable as long as it was in the lease. The problem would be proving it. Not much different that requiring the heat be left at or above a minimum degree in the winter to avoid pipe freezing. --68.191.xx.xx

Thank you for your thoughts you bring up excellent points --73.197.xxx.xxx

RentsDue, that is true except that a frozen pipe is pretty unmistakable, as is a broken pipe. Even running an AC my house is humid - mold & mildew form on things anyway. I don't know how you'd PROVE actual damage from not running an AC. --50.82.xxx.xxx

WMH - Just sold my house in New Orleans after 25 years, your comments are oh so accurate ! --73.197.xxx.xxx

3. tenant shall maintain premises free of mold and mildew as caused by poor circulation, humidity, etc. --172.250.x.xx

It isn’t much of a stretch from that point to require HVAC operation as a term of tenancy. --149.76.xxx.xxx

Then at night the whole house fan really cools things down where you don't need central air. --47.156.xx.xx

AC is a very subjective matter. If you are going for humidity prevention, you've got to run it long enough to work. How long is that? At what temp? --50.82.xxx.xxx

Sounds like the building is really air tight where there is a air exchanger connected up to the furnace. In the bathrooms can reduce humidity build up by installing low flow shower heads then installing a humidity switch that will switch automatically when the humidity goes up then turns off. If installed a Wifi thermostat could remotely turn on HVAC system where could recirculate air then have a dehumidifers in the basement. Everything has to automated as the stupidity of some tenants. Air tight buildings are becoming more common as a air tight building is more energy efficient. Most of the humidity is generated in bathrooms as long as tenant is not drying clothes inside the house. --68.69.xxx.xxx

W, it is largely a screening issue. The tenant level of cooperation tells the tale. Best to not approve the people who won’t be home for weeks at a time. --149.76.xxx.xxx

7. Tenant acknowledges that it is necessary for tenant to provide appropriate climate control, keep the unit clean, and take other measures to retard and prevent mold and mildew from accumulating in the unit. Tenant agrees to clean and dust the unit on a regular basis and to remove visible moisture accumulation on windows, walls and other surfaces as soon as reasonably possible. Tenant agrees not to block or cover any of the heating, ventilation, or air conditioning ducts in the unit. Tenant agrees to immediately report to the landlord: a) any evidence of a water leak or excessive moisture in the unit, as well as in any storage room, garage or other common area: b) any evidence of mold or mildew-like growth that cannot be removed by simply applying a common household cleaner and wiping the area: c) any failure or malfunction in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems or laundry systems in the unit; and d) any inoperable doors or windows. Tenant further agrees that tenant shall be responsible for damage to the premises and tenant property as well as injury to tenant or occupants resulting from tenant failure to comply with the terms of this paragraph. --76.138.xxx.xxx

Phil {OR) - This is exactly what I was trying to get to and perfect for my situation - thanks! --73.197.xxx.xxx

I would think that would cause undo wear and tear on the squirrel cage motor --24.101.xxx.xxx