In a rental property, heating and hot water are considered to be essential services. They have a direct impact on whether a property is fit for habitation because they can affect the health and safety of a property and its tenants and can pose a serious risk if they are not operational. For this reason, landlords have to make the maintenance and provision of heating and hot water a high priority. In London, where data confirms the London boroughs provide...

What constitutes an emergency?

When heating and hot water services fail in a rental property, it can be considered an emergency situation, particularly during colder months. The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords to keep installations for supplying hot water and heating in good working order.

What can tenants do?

If you're facing issues with heating or hot water, you should:

• Report the issue to your landlord immediately
• Keep records of all communications
• Document any health impacts
• Consider temporary solutions while repairs are pending

Making a housing disrepair claim

If your landlord fails to respond adequately to emergency heating issues, you may be entitled to compensation for discomfort, health impacts, and any additional costs incurred.