Temperatures dropping may give rise to questions from renters about their heat policy. Brenda Konkel, Executive Director of the Tenant Resource Center, says they’re hotline gets a lot of calls asking when the landlords are supposed to turn on the heat. Konkel says there is no set date. “The landlord is required year round to have heating facilities that can reach 67 degrees.”
If the heat goes out, for whatever reason, there is no state law that lays out a specific time the landlord must address the problem. However most building inspectors agree the response should happen within 24 hours.
If the property owner is not living up their obligations, Konkel suggests contacting the city to complain.
If the tenant is responsible for shoveling the walk, Konkel suggests keeping an eye on the news to anticipate the weather.