How long can a landlord leave you without heating in the UK?

As a tenant, your landlord’s responsibilities extend beyond providing shelter; they must ensure you have access to essential amenities, including heating and hot water. This isn’t just good practice - it’s a legal requirement.

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must:

• Keep in repair and proper working order the installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation.
• Maintain systems for space heating and heating water.

If your boiler breaks down, you might wonder how long your landlord can leave you without heating. Thankfully, the law is on your side. Here’s what you need to know.

Tenant Rights: No Hot Water or Heating

Unless the tenant is at fault for the heating system's failure, it is the landlord’s responsibility to repair or replace it. According to The Tenant’s Voice, indoor temperatures should be at least 18°C in bedrooms and 21°C in living rooms when the outside temperature drops to -1°C.

While the law doesn’t specify an exact timeframe, landlords are generally expected to resolve heating issues within a "reasonable time frame." During the winter months, a reasonable landlord should fix the problem within 24 hours. If it takes longer, it could be a serious health hazard and a breach of your tenancy agreement.

What to Do When There’s No Hot Water in Your Rental Property

As a tenant, it’s your responsibility to report any issues to the landlord. Until they are informed, they aren’t obligated to fix the problem. Here’s what you should look out for:

• Inefficient radiators.
• No hot water in the taps or shower.

Before contacting your landlord, ensure the issue isn't something you can fix. For instance, if your radiators aren't working, bleeding them could solve the problem. YouTube videos are easily accessible to learn how to do this.

Once you’re sure the heating is broken, here’s how to notify your landlord:

1. Call them and clearly explain the situation.
2. Follow up with a written message, including evidence like a photo of the thermostat if the temperature is particularly low.
3. If you don’t hear back within a day, don’t hesitate to chase them up.

What Happens Next?

Once notified, your landlord is legally required to act. They should arrange for a plumber to visit and fix the problem, keeping you informed of the timeline. If they can’t restore heating in a reasonable time, they may provide temporary solutions like portable heaters. If these are insufficient, you might request alternative accommodation, such as a B&B or hotel, at the landlord’s expense.

If the lack of heating is seriously affecting your living conditions, you might be entitled to ask for a rent deduction.

What If Your Landlord Refuses to Fix the Heating?

If your landlord is unresponsive or refuses to address the issue, you can contact your local council’s Environmental Health Department. They can intervene and, in urgent cases, authorise repairs. To find your local council, visit gov.uk.

Even in this frustrating situation, avoid withholding rent. While it might seem like a way to pressure your landlord, it can backfire, potentially leading to eviction.

At Bode Insurance, we believe in keeping tenants informed of their rights and helping landlords meet their obligations. Whether you're a renter or landlord, knowing your legal responsibilities can help avoid disputes and maintain a safe, comfortable home.