When Does My Landlord HAVE to Turn on the Heat? A Chilly Chicago Conundrum
So, it’s getting nippy in the Windy City. You’re bundled up in three layers, sipping on that questionable hot chocolate, and wondering when your landlord is going to flip that golden heat switch. Let’s dive into the chilly world of Chicago heat ordinances.
The Heat is On (Eventually)
According to the city of Chicago, landlords are legally obligated to provide heat to their tenants from September 15th to June 1st. That’s right, folks, even if it’s 80 degrees on September 16th, your landlord has to crank up the thermostat. We can only imagine the energy bills on those unseasonably warm days.
But don't get too excited. Just because the heat can be on doesn’t mean it will be on. Some landlords are quicker on the draw than others. You might find yourself shivering until November if you’re unlucky.
What’s the Temperature Supposed to Be?
You’re entitled to a toasty 68 degrees Fahrenheit between 8:30 AM and 10:30 PM, and a slightly cooler 66 degrees from 10:30 PM to 8:30 AM. If your apartment feels like an icebox, break out the thermometer and start taking readings. Evidence is key when dealing with less-than-stellar landlords.
What to Do When Your Landlord is an Ice Queen/King
If your landlord is ignoring your pleas for warmth, don’t despair. There are steps you can take:
- Document Everything: Keep a record of your conversations, emails, and any temperature readings. This will be your ammo if you need to escalate the issue.
- Contact the Department of Buildings: The city takes heat violations seriously. They can inspect your apartment and issue fines to your landlord.
- Find a Warm-Up Spot: Libraries, coffee shops, and even the L train can be surprisingly toasty. Embrace the nomad life until your heat situation is resolved.
How to Survive Until the Heat Turns On
- Layer Up: Embrace the cozy sweater and thick socks lifestyle.
- Invest in a Space Heater: A small space heater can make a big difference. Just be careful not to overload your electrical outlets.
- Cook Something Hearty: Nothing warms you up from the inside out like a big bowl of chili.
- Get Moving: Exercise generates heat. Do some jumping jacks or dance around your apartment to stay warm.
- Find a Heat-Seeking Buddy: Misery loves company. Find a fellow freezing tenant to commiserate with.
How-To FAQs
- How to report a heat violation: Contact the Chicago Department of Buildings.
- How to measure the temperature in your apartment: Use a reliable thermometer.
- How to stay warm without heat: Layer up, use a space heater, and get moving.
- How to find a warm-up spot: Check out local libraries, coffee shops, or community centers.
- How to deal with a landlord who won’t turn on the heat: Document everything, contact the Department of Buildings, and find a warm-up spot.