In New York City, keeping your apartment warm and having readily available hot water is essential for comfortable living. But did you know there are laws and helpful programs in place to guarantee these necessities for tenants? Especially during “Heat Season”, when temperatures get low.
What is “Heat Season”?
NYC’s heat season generally runs from October 1st to May 31st. During this period, landlords are responsible for providing adequate heat to their tenants.
Hot Water Laws:
- Landlords are required to provide hot water 365 days a year.
- The minimum hot water temperature must be 120 degrees Fahrenheit at the faucet.
Heat Laws:
- Daytime Heating: Between 6 AM and 10 PM, if the outside temperature drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, landlords are obligated to maintain an indoor temperature of at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Nighttime Heating: From 10 PM to 6 AM, regardless of the outdoor temperature, the indoor temperature must be at least 62 degrees Fahrenheit.
Heat and Hot Water Problems
If you experience problems with your heat and hot water, you should first let the superintendent, property manager, or building owner know. If the problem is not solved, or the people you told are unresponsive, you can report the issue by calling 311.
It is recommended you receive guidance from a free housing lawyer provided by IDG Legal to settle any housing disputes or heat season issues.
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
HEAP is a federally funded program that assists low-income households with their home heating costs. HEAP can help pay for:
- Fuel: Natural gas, propane, oil, kerosene, wood, coal, or electricity.
- Utility Source: Directly to your utility company.
- Equipment: Repair or replacement of essential heating equipment.
HEAP Benefits:
- Regular Benefit: A one-time benefit to help pay heating costs, based on income, household size, primary heating source, and the presence of vulnerable household members.
- Emergency Benefit: For households in a heat or heat-related emergency.
- Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement (HERR) Benefit: For homeowners to repair or replace essential heating equipment.
- Clean and Tune Benefit: For homeowners to receive energy efficiency services, including cleaning and tuning of primary heating equipment.
Eligibility and benefits are based on:
- Income
- Household size
- Primary heating source
- The presence of a household member who is under age 6, age 60 or older, or permanently disabled.
Apply for HEAP:
- Online: https://access.nyc.gov/
- By Phone: 1-800-342-3009
- In Person: Visit your local HEAP agency – find yours here.
Housing Support from IDG Legal
IDG Legal provides free legal support for drivers who are having housing issues; such as landlord-tenant disputes, pursuing a case in small claims court, New York City housing law, understanding legal documents such as leases or eviction notices, and letting you know your rights as a tenant. Tap below to learn more and get support today.
