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Hot Water and Heat Law Attorneys in New York Assist Tenants

Established firm represents clients living and working in unsafe conditions

Reliable access to heat and hot water is essential for healthy living in New York City. Even if you lose service for a short time, you and your family could be in danger. At Goldberg & Lindenberg, P.C., we are experienced attorneys who can provide immediate, effective legal representation if your apartment lacks these basic necessities. Specific rules exist regarding what landlords must provide, and we are ready to fight on your behalf if a violation occurs. Whether the situation can be fixed with a strong communication to your landlord or whether more extensive measures are warranted, our proven New York lawyers won’t back down until you have the heat and hot water you need.

New York City rules on access to hot water

Landlords are required to provide hot water to all residential tenants 365 days a year. This means that the constant temperature has to be at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If you cannot get the temperature you need while washing dishes or bathing, you should not just wait and hope the problem goes away. Sometimes, the problem is due to a plumbing failure or some other temporary issue. However, our firm can examine your landlord’s record to see there is a history of violations relating to hot water or other habitability issues. Depending on the particular circumstances, there are several steps you can take, including:

  • Calling the landlord and/or superintendent
  • Contacting 311 or NYCHA with a complaint
  • Filing a lawsuit for the failure to provide essential services

Along with residents of apartment buildings, commercial tenants also are entitled to heat and hot water in their rental properties. We assist individuals, families and businesses who are forced to endure unsafe and uncomfortable conditions because their landlord did not honor their legal obligation.

Regulations governing heat in rental properties

During heating season, which is the period between October 1st and May 31st, landlords are required to provide tenants with certain levels of heat based on the following standards determined by the outside temperature and time of day:

  • Between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., if the outside temperature falls below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, the inside temperature is required to be at least 68 degrees.
  • Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. the inside temperature is required to be at least 62 degrees Fahrenheit, regardless of what the outside temperature might be.

If a landlord does not comply with the above heat and hot water requirements, there are many options available to tenants to enforce their rights. For example, you might be able to withhold rent and the landlord could be subject to fines or other penalties. Tenants should speak with an attorney before proceeding.

Contact a New York City lawyer for a free consultation if you lack heat or hot water

Goldberg & Lindenberg, P.C. represents clients throughout the five boroughs whose residences are not receiving the heat and hot water they are entitled to under law. If you are facing this type of problem, please call 212-921-1600 or contact us online to discuss your situation with a qualified attorney in a free consultation. Our office is in Midtown Manhattan.