Everything You Need To Know About The Toronto Heating By-Law
Heating and air conditioning requirements for your rental.
1.5 min read
Fall is here, and that means lower temperatures both outside and inside your home. Did you know a landlord is responsible for providing heat to a residential property at a minimum of 21 degrees Celsius between September 15 and June 1 of each year? During these months, the weather can be a bit warmer (September 15 to October 15 and May to June 1), which might cause the temperature inside to be above 21 degrees Celsius, resulting in uncomfortable living conditions for tenants.
If the weather outside causes the apartment units to be 21 degrees Celsius without heat, property owners and landlords can turn the heat off. If the heating system is out of service and is currently under repair, this is NOT a violation and does not require investigation.
The Heating By-law does not apply to the building common areas (hallways, stairwells, building entrances, etc.) and only applies to the residential unit. Suppose there is heating equipment in the common building areas. As long as it is in good working condition (Property Standards By-law requirement), there is no minimum temperature that applies to these areas.
Toronto municipal code chapter 629-38 highlights the standard requirements when it comes to heating and air-conditioning for your rental unit.
TORONTO MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 629, PROPERTY STANDARDS
§ 629-38. Heating and air conditioning
B. Every dwelling and every dwelling unit shall have a heating system capable of maintaining a room temperature of 21 degrees Celsius at 1.5 metres above the floor level in all habitable rooms, bathrooms and toilet rooms. [Amended 2004-06-24 by By-law No. 559- 2004]
As the colder months are quickly approaching, work with your landlord to ensure your unit will keep you warm all season long.
Live The Westhaven Way
Apply to Westhaven Toronto Rentals today!