Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) has proposed amending tenancy law so that tenants can more easily install air conditioners or external sun blinds. So far, there is no legal basis for this, and landlords generally have to approve such modifications. In an interview with the Rheinische Post, Hubig said that classic legal policy could also contribute to heat protection.
The minister pointed to existing hurdles: if heat protection requires structural changes to the apartment, that has not been easy so far. She is calling for legal regulations that are clear and practical for both sides. Hubig also spoke out in favor of anchoring climate adaptation as a joint task in the Basic Law.
Air conditioners are often considered power guzzlers and harmful to the climate, though this does not apply to all models. Hubig stressed that protection from the consequences of climate change must become a key political issue. She called it a question of social justice, as older people, children, and financially weaker individuals suffer particularly from heat waves.
Source: Tagesschau
