During the summer months, extreme heat can be more than uncomfortable. It can be dangerous. For many tenants, especially older adults, children or those with medical conditions, staying cool is not a luxury but a health necessity. However, sometimes the landlord can refuse to listen to the complaint.
If you have been feeling unwell in your rental due to poor air circulation, broken air conditioning or sealed windows that will not open, it is important to understand that staying silent may cause more harm than good. Heat-related illnesses are real and sometimes preventable.
Beat the heat and know your rights
When temperatures rise, you have a right to live in a place that does not put your health at risk. While the rules vary, most housing codes require that rentals be “habitable,” meaning safe and livable. Below are some of the red flags to watch out for:
- No working AC or fan system: If your lease includes air conditioning or another cooling method, and it is broken, the owner may be responsible for fixing it promptly.
- Poor ventilation: Windows that will not open or units with no way to get airflow may be unsafe, especially in extreme heat.
- Hot water issues: If the water heater is overheating or affecting the inside temperature, that could also count as a safety concern.
- Signs of neglect: If heat is making the home unlivable and other maintenance issues exist like mold, leaks or power outages, it may point to larger problems with upkeep.
Always report problems as soon as they happen. Keep records, photos and messages in case things escalate.
If you are dealing with heat-related issues and feel like your concerns are being ignored, it may help to learn more about your rights and legal options.
