Lib Dems propose air con in all new-build homes
27th July 2026
UK: The Liberal Democrats are proposing a new legal requirement for all new build homes in the UK to be fitted with air conditioning or effective cooling systems.
Claiming that the UK is dangerously unprepared for the extreme weather already hitting the country, Liberal Democrat environment spokesperson Tim Farron has unveiled a “climate ready” package which it is said would provide security to all future homes in Britain.
The Liberal Democrat package of measures includes a new legal requirement for all new build homes to be fitted with air conditioning or effective cooling systems, so that housebuilders stop constructing homes that overheat by design.
The party says that the current approach leaves new residents, including elderly and vulnerable people, dangerously at risk during increasingly frequent heatwaves. The party is also calling for a continuation of passive cooling measures such as tree planting in residential areas.
The Lib Dems are calling on the Government to look seriously at how we are preparing the nation for regular extreme heat events, including investing in air conditioning. They say Miatta Fanhbulleh’s net zero plans must include air con for all such essential settings as a matter of urgency given the danger to life already on show.
“This latest set of relentless heatwaves has taught us that Britain is woefully unprepared for extreme heat, and families across Britain are paying for the cost of inaction, said Tim Farron.
“With another heatwave on the horizon, the Government must step in with a new plan that takes the onus off already-struggling Brits and commits developers to build homes fit for the future – insulated properly and equipped with air conditioning.
“This measure is needed to provide the security we need as extreme heat events ramp up year on year.”
Lib Dem housing spokesperson Gideon Amos, added: “Air conditioning is becoming essential in UK homes, which are now amongst the smallest and hottest in Europe after previous Conservatives governments swept away minimum space standards.”
