Seattle gets cold and rainy. Here's what the law says about heat, hot water, and utilities in your rental—and what to do if something isn't working.
Heat Requirements
Under Washington's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, landlords must provide adequate heating as part of their duty to maintain a habitable dwelling.
Seattle Heat Requirements
- Heating system must be in good working order
- Must maintain reasonable temperature (generally 65°F or above)
- Must be available year-round (not just heating season)
- Must repair promptly when heating fails
Hot Water Requirements
Hot water is considered an essential service:
- Must provide running hot water at all times
- Must maintain safe temperature (not scalding)
- Failure to provide hot water is a serious habitability violation
Who Pays for What?
Utility responsibility varies by lease. Here's what's typical in Seattle:
Typical Seattle Utility Arrangements
Often included in rent, especially in apartment buildings. Sometimes billed separately via RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing System).
Usually tenant's responsibility. Set up account with Seattle City Light.
Usually tenant's responsibility. Set up account with Puget Sound Energy.
Depends on heating type. Electric heat = tenant pays electric. Building-wide heating = often included.
Always Check Your Lease
Your lease should clearly state which utilities are included and which you're responsible for. If it's unclear, ask before signing.
Typical Seattle Utility Costs
Estimated Monthly Costs (1BR apartment)
Costs vary based on usage, unit size, and season.
What to Do If You Don't Have Heat
No heat in winter is an emergency. Here's what to do:
- Notify your landlord immediately — Call, text, AND email for documentation
- Give a reasonable time to fix — For emergencies, this is hours, not days
- Document everything — Take photos of thermostat, document temperature
- If not fixed quickly — Contact Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI)
Winter Emergency
If you have no heat and your landlord isn't responding, you may be able to hire someone to fix it and deduct from rent, or break your lease. Consult with a tenant rights organization first.
What to Do Without Hot Water
Same process as no heat—this is a serious habitability issue:
- Notify landlord in writing immediately
- Document the problem
- Allow reasonable time to repair (24-48 hours max)
- Contact SDCI if not resolved
Illegal Utility Shutoffs
Your landlord cannot:
- Shut off utilities to force you out
- Refuse to restore utilities as punishment
- Lock you out of your apartment
- Intentionally let utilities lapse
These are illegal self-help eviction tactics. Contact the Tenant Union immediately if this happens.
Who to Contact
Resources
- SDCI (code violations): 206-684-8950
- Renting in Seattle Helpline: 206-684-5700
- Seattle City Light (electricity): 206-684-3000
- Puget Sound Energy (gas): 1-888-225-5773
- Tenant Union: 206-723-0500