Understanding Tenant Rights: Chicago Heat Ordinance
I have heat in my apartment, but it is too cold. I don't have heat at all. What are a tenant's rights?
Between September 15 and June 1, the landlord is required to keep the apartment above a certain minimum temperature. During this time frame, a tenant's unit must be maintained according to the following guidelines:
- 68 degrees from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
- 66 degrees from 10:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m.
If a tenant has heat, but it is not at the minimum temperature required, a tenant should call 311 and start keeping a heat diary of the temperature in the apartment. Record the temperature three times a day for a week to document the problem. Alert the Landlord to the problem in writing and include the results of the temperature testing. Request that he increase the heat to be in compliance with the Chicago Municipal Code. If this does not fix the problem, call the City’s heat hotline at 312-744-5000.
If at any time it becomes dangerously cold in a tenant's apartment, a tenant can call 311 and ask to be transported to one of the city's heat shelters.
The above article provides information about legal issues but is not the same as legal advice. Legal advice is when a lawyer applies the law to your specific situation. The information in this article does not replace the advice or representation of a licensed attorney. Law Center for Better Housing cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information in this article and is not responsible for any consequences that may result from using it. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure the information in this article is appropriate for your specific situation. Using the information in this article does not create a relationship between Law Center for Better Housing and you as your attorney.