Require freeholders to allow leaseholders to install safe, compliant fixed split air conditioning with external condenser units unless they can justify reason to refuse it. Freeholders and managing agents should not refuse by default and must give evidence-based reasons for refusal.

Many leaseholders in modern flats in buildings that are not listed or protected are blocked from installing fixed air conditioning with external condenser units because freeholders control walls, roofs, balconies and facades. Portable, internal-only and water-cooled systems are often inadequate as heatwaves make flats unsafe. This is not about uncontrolled facade changes: freeholders could set locations, noise limits and screening. We believe refusal should be based on genuine evidence, not a default policy.