In January, Albuquerque City Council enacted Ordinance O-59 mandating that all rental properties within the city limits be equipped with functional cooling systems. This significant update to the Uniform Housing Code was imposed to safeguard tenants amid escalating summer temperatures and intensifying heatwaves.​

Now that warm weather is here, it's time to beat the heat and the fines.

Key Highlights of Ordinance O-59

• Cooling Requirement: Landlords are now obligated to install and maintain cooling systems—such as air conditioning or evaporative coolers—in all rental units. These systems must be capable of maintaining indoor temperatures at or below 80°F at a point three feet above the floor in all habitable rooms.​
• Temporary Measures: Portable cooling units may only serve as a temporary solution when the permanent system is under repair or replacement.​
• Legislative Details: View Ordinance O-59 (this link has been updated with the enacted signed version - huge thanks to Jennifer Alderete who provided the final document that I was unable to locate when this was published)

Implications for Rental Property Owners 

Property owners managing rental units must ensure compliance with this new ordinance. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences, including citations and potential fines. While specific penalty amounts are not detailed in the ordinance, violations of the housing code are subject to enforcement actions by the city's Code Enforcement Division.​

To avoid penalties, landlords should:​

• Assess Current Cooling Systems: Evaluate existing cooling installations to ensure they meet the new requirements.​
• Plan for Upgrades: If current systems are inadequate, schedule necessary upgrades or installations promptly.​
• Maintain Documentation: Keep records of all maintenance and installation work related to cooling systems.​City of Albuquerque
• Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates or additional guidelines from the City of Albuquerque's Planning Department.​

Support and Resources

The city has expressed its commitment to assisting landlords and tenants during this transition. For guidance or to report non-compliance, contact the City of Albuquerque's Planning Department at 505-924-3860 or dial 311.​