5 days ago2 min read

From Frosty Mornings to Frosty Landlords: Know Your Rights as Winter Bites

As winter sets in and temperatures plunge, there’s nothing like the comfort of a warm, cozy home. But what if your living space turns icy, your heater fails, or your landlord leaves you shivering in silence? For tenants, these situations aren’t just uncomfortable—they’re a matter of legal rights.

The image shows a person jogging across the Millennium Bridge in London, with St. Paul’s Cathedral in the background. The bridge's sleek metal design contrasts with the historic architecture of the cathedral. The scene is set under a cloudy sky, creating a moody yet serene atmosphere.

If you’re battling the cold and your landlord’s indifference, don’t despair. Here’s a clear guide to understanding your rights and taking action when your living conditions leave you out in the cold.

The Legal Lowdown: What Landlords Must Do

Landlords are legally bound to ensure your home is safe, habitable, and properly heated. Here’s what the law says:

Landlord and Tenant Act 1985

Your landlord must maintain and repair heating and hot water systems. If the boiler breaks or the radiators fail, it’s their job to fix it.

Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018

Your home must be fit for living, which includes adequate heating and insulation. If it’s too cold to function, your landlord may be in breach of this law.

Minimum Heating Standards

To comply with legal standards: Bedrooms must stay at 18°C.

Living rooms must hit at least 21°C.

If your home can’t reach these thresholds, it’s not just inconvenient—it could be grounds for legal action.

Energy Efficiency

Since April 2018, all privately rented homes must meet a minimum energy efficiency rating of E. If your home is hard to heat, check if it meets these requirements.

Gas Safety

Landlords must provide a valid gas safety certificate (CP-12) annually and ensure gas appliances are serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Your Responsibilities as a Tenant

Tenants have a role to play in ensuring their homes stay warm:

Use Heating Properly: Operate appliances as intended and keep a minimum temperature to avoid issues like frozen pipes.

Report Issues Promptly: Notify your landlord immediately if something breaks. Delays could lead to bigger problems—and higher costs.

When the Cold Becomes Critical: What Counts as an Emergency?

Not every heating hiccup is an emergency, but some situations demand immediate attention:

Total Loss of Heating or Hot Water: Especially in freezing weather, this can pose serious health risks.

Frozen Pipes: Frozen pipes can burst, causing floods and extensive damage.

Health Risks: If the cold puts vulnerable people—such as children, the elderly, or those with chronic conditions—at risk, action must be swift.

Need Help? Let Us Fight the Cold for You

If you’re struggling with poor heating, inadequate insulation, or an unresponsive landlord, don’t face it alone. At Law clinic there are lawyers that specialise in tenant rights, and we’re here to help you navigate your legal options. We offer expert advice and support to ensure you’re not left out in the cold.

Let’s make sure this winter is about cosy nights in—not battles over basic rights. Reach out now!