Monday, February 8, 2010

What is the law on having utilities included in the rent and not having any control of what the temperature is

I recently moved into a duplex, the landlord lives downstairs and I live upstairs. All of the utilities are included in the rent. The issue is: The landlord controls the thermostat to the heat. I am freezing upstairs and she refuses to turn the thermostat up. Is there a law on what the temperature needs or must be when a landlord supplies the heat? I live in Lucas County in the State of Ohio. Thank you!What is the law on having utilities included in the rent and not having any control of what the temperature is
You would have to Google for your local housing codes. If they are not available online, you will need to contact the local housing inspector and ask what the requirement is.





The codes may vary by city or town.


For example:





In the city of Columbus: The landlord must maintain the temperature of the apartment at a minimum of 70 degrees Fahrenheit when the outside temperature is 0 degrees.





Toledo: Dwelling must be provided with a heating system capable of maintaining a minimum of 68 degrees in each habitable room.What is the law on having utilities included in the rent and not having any control of what the temperature is
contact ur local renting authority .
I would contact the Health Dept and have them come out and check to see if it is the landlord or the equipment. The owner may not have the right size heater for the size of the property. You can also check your state's website for landlord/tenant issues and concerns.
Why bother with such a mess, get yourself an electric space heater!!





As long as you are not paying the electric bill, crank that sucker up and get TROPICAL!!!





Perhaps, when the LL gets the first bill, she may be willing to adjust the thermostat?
It sounds like she doesnt have the heat turned on in the building. Or she is one of these people who walk around in 10 sweaters to save a buck. Gas is not cheap these days.





I own a duplex (1 up 1 down) and the lower apt controls the heat. The heat stays on 65 degrees because it just gets too hot upstairs in the winter otherwise. Remember your high school science class? HEAT RISES.


Ask her nicely to turn up the heat a little bit or let her know that you will be getting a small electric heater for each of these rooms: bedroom, the bathroom and the living room. If she refuses then give her your 30 day notice in writing stating your reason of insufficient heat during the winter, get friends to witness the letter, then send it to her via certified return receipt requested mail.
I recommend that you find a new landlord.

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