Virginia House Bill HB1658

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/25
• Refer: 1/3/25

Caption

Board of Housing and Community Development; USBC; stakeholder group to evaluate temperature regulation.

Impact

The potential impact of HB1658 on state law revolves around establishing clear temperature requirements for private rental properties. By setting specific temperature norms—no more than 77 degrees Fahrenheit during the cooling season (May 1 - October 15) and no less than 68 degrees Fahrenheit during heating season (October 15 - May 1)—the bill seeks to enhance tenant rights and promote better living conditions. This may require landlords to make significant updates to their HVAC systems if they do not currently meet these standards.

Summary

House Bill 1658 aims to amend the Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) by directing the Board of Housing and Community Development to convene a stakeholder advisory group. This group will evaluate necessary changes regarding temperature regulation in residential buildings, specifically focusing on Group R-2 apartments that rent or lease dwelling units. The proposed legislation mandates that property owners provide adequate cooling during warmer months and heating during colder months, ensuring that living conditions remain habitable and comfortable for tenants.

Contention

While supporters of the bill, including tenant rights advocates, argue that such regulations are essential for public health and safety, there may be concern from property owners and landlords regarding the cost implications of compliance. The process of collecting stakeholder input indicates an acknowledgement of differing perspectives on the bill, highlighting a potential for both consensus and contention in its application. The advisory group is expected to provide recommendations that address these concerns while balancing the needs of tenants and landlords alike.