Chicago winters are brutal—temps regularly drop below zero. No heat isn't just uncomfortable, it's dangerous. Fortunately, Chicago has clear laws about what temperatures landlords must maintain. Here's what you need to know.
No Heat Right Now?
Call 311 immediately to report a heat complaint. Chicago takes these seriously.
For life-threatening emergencies (elderly, infants, medical conditions), call 911.
Heat Requirements
Chicago law requires landlords to provide heat during "Heating Season"—September 15 through June 1. The requirements are:
Legal Temperature Requirements
Minimum temperature inside the apartment
Minimum temperature during sleeping hours
Hot Water Requirements
Unlike heat, hot water is required 365 days per year, 24 hours a day.
Hot Water Requirements
Must be available at all times, year-round
Heat Season Dates
September 15 — June 1
Heat Season in Chicago
During this period, landlords must provide heat to meet the minimum temperature requirements. Outside of heat season, there's no legal heat requirement—but hot water is still required year-round.
What to Do If You Have No Heat
If your apartment isn't reaching the required temperature:
Step-by-Step Action Plan
Use a thermometer, take photos with timestamps
Call and follow up in writing (email or text). Keep records.
Don't wait. File a heat complaint. Get a reference number.
Heat complaints trigger inspection, often within 24 hours.
Landlord must correct quickly or face fines and further action.
Heat Violations Are Serious
Failure to provide adequate heat can result in:
- Building code violations
- Fines — Up to $500+ per day
- Emergency repairs by the city — Billed to the landlord
- Court action — Tenants can sue for damages
Check Building's Heat Complaint History
Before renting, see if a building has repeated heat violations. Multiple heat complaints = cold winters.
Search any buildingYour Rights Under the RLTO
If your landlord fails to provide heat, you may have remedies under the RLTO:
- Repair and deduct — After proper notice, you may be able to fix the issue and deduct from rent
- Rent withholding — In extreme cases (consult a lawyer first)
- Lease termination — Serious violations may allow you to break the lease
Important
Before using RLTO remedies, consult with a tenant rights organization or attorney. Contact the Metropolitan Tenants Organization at (773) 292-4988.
Common Questions
What if my landlord says the boiler is broken?
Not an excuse. Landlords are responsible for maintaining heating systems. Boiler problems must be fixed immediately—they can't just leave you without heat.
What if I control my own heat (electric baseboard)?
If you have individual heating and pay your own electric bill, the landlord may not be responsible for providing heat—but they must ensure the system works properly.
Can I use a space heater?
As a temporary solution, yes—but your landlord is still required to provide adequate heat. Space heaters can be fire hazards, so be careful.
What about summer? Can my apartment be too hot?
Chicago has no maximum temperature requirements and landlords aren't required to provide air conditioning. However, they can't prevent you from installing a window AC unit.
Resources
- 311 — Report heat/hot water complaints
- Metropolitan Tenants Organization — (773) 292-4988 — Free tenant hotline
- Complete Chicago Tenant Rights Guide
- Understanding the RLTO