Boston averages 48 inches of snow per year, and January temperatures hover around 29°F. Heat isn't a luxury—it's survival. Massachusetts law requires landlords to provide adequate heat, and violations are taken seriously. Here's what you need to know.
No Heat? Act Now.
Call, text, AND email. Document everything.
(617) 635-4500 — They treat heat as an emergency in winter.
Take photos of a thermometer with date/time visible.
Massachusetts Heat Requirements
Under the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code, landlords must provide heat during the heating season: October 1 through May 31.
Required Minimum Temperatures
All habitable rooms
All habitable rooms
These temperatures must be maintained in all "habitable rooms" — living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom. Hallways and unfinished spaces don't count.
Hot Water Requirements
Hot water must be provided year-round, not just during heating season.
Hot Water Requirements
At all times, 365 days/year
Some codes specify minimum 110°F, others 120°F. Water over 130°F can be a scalding hazard.
Who Pays for Heat?
This depends on your lease. There are two common arrangements:
- Heat included: Landlord pays for heat. They must maintain temperatures regardless of cost.
- Tenant pays: You pay the gas/oil bill directly. Landlord must still ensure the heating system works properly.
Important
Even if you pay for heat, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the heating system. If the boiler breaks, that's their problem to fix—not yours.
What to Do If Your Landlord Violates Heat Laws
Step 1: Document Everything
- Take photos of a thermometer showing the temperature and date/time
- Keep a written log of when you had no heat or inadequate heat
- Save all communications with your landlord
Step 2: Notify Your Landlord
Contact your landlord in writing (email creates a paper trail). Be specific about the problem and include the temperature in your apartment.
Step 3: File a Complaint
If your landlord doesn't respond quickly:
Where to File Complaints
(617) 635-4500 — They inspect and issue violations
General city services line
Step 4: Know Your Options
If your landlord continues to violate heat laws:
- Rent withholding: Massachusetts allows rent withholding for serious habitability issues, but you must follow specific procedures.
- Repair and deduct: In some cases, you can make emergency repairs and deduct from rent.
- File in Housing Court: You can sue for damages and force compliance.
- Break your lease: Severe habitability violations may justify terminating your lease.
Get Legal Advice First
Before withholding rent or breaking your lease, consult with a tenant rights organization. These actions can backfire if not done correctly. Contact City Life / Vida Urbana at (617) 227-4878.
Check Heat History Before Renting
The best way to avoid heat problems is to research a building before signing a lease. Buildings with heat violations in the past are likely to have them again.
We Weight Heat Violations More Heavily
Because Boston winters are brutal, StreetSmart weights heat violations 25% higher than other cities. A building with heat problems will have a lower score.
Search a BuildingEmergency Situations
If it's dangerously cold and you have no heat:
- Stay warm: Use space heaters safely (never leave unattended), layer up, stay in one room.
- Call ISD immediately: (617) 635-4500 — Heat emergencies get priority response in winter.
- Consider temporary shelter: If the situation is dangerous, don't stay. Stay with friends/family or contact 311 for warming centers.
- Document: Even while dealing with the emergency, take photos and notes.