Hiring of real property: dwellings: untenantability.

McKinnor’s policy proposal would add a stove and a refrigerator to the list of characteristics that must be maintained for a rental dwelling to be considered tenantable, with the new requirements taking effect for leases entered into, amended, or extended after January 1, 2026. This change sits alongside existing standards such as waterproofing, plumbing, heating, electrical systems, and cleanliness, specifying that these two appliances must be kept in good working order and capable of performing their intended functions.

The bill establishes two new appliance-related standards: a stove that is maintained in good working order and capable of safely generating heat for cooking, and a refrigerator that is maintained in good working order and capable of safely storing food. If a stove or refrigerator is subject to a recall by the manufacturer or a public entity, it would be deemed not capable of performing its function. Landlords would be required to repair or replace a recalled appliance within 30 days after receiving recall notice, with the recall remedy continuing to be governed by existing tenant-remedy provisions. The measure also permits a mutual lease provision allowing a tenant to provide and maintain their own refrigerator, subject to specific conditions, including required notice, lease language, a non-conditioning of tenancy on the tenant’s refrigerator, and landlord installation of a standard refrigerator if the tenant ends the arrangement after a 30-day notice period. This mutual agreement option applies only to leases entered into, amended, or extended on or after January 1, 2026.

The new appliance requirements would not apply to certain housing configurations, including permanent supportive housing, single-room occupancy units, units in residential hotels, and dwellings in housing facilities with shared or communal kitchen spaces. Enforcement relies on the existing framework for landlord repairs and remedies, and the recall obligation is stated to operate within a defined 30-day window upon recall notice. The bill preserves tenants’ ability to pursue remedies under existing law and does not include explicit funding provisions. It also indicates that eligibility for energy savings or other program assistance remains available for related heating or hot water system repairs or replacements.