Student flat heating

Our Experts Answer:

The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (the Act) does not make any reference to the provision of heating in rental properties. However, it does require landlords to comply with all relevant health, safety and building regulations that apply to the premises. The Housing Improvement Regulations 1947 (the Regulations) specify the minimum standard of fitness for houses and require every living-room to be fitted with a fireplace and chimney or other approved form of heating. “Approved” is defined in the Regulations as approved by the local authority. Therefore, what constitutes ”other approved form of heating” (other than a fireplace and chimney) will depend on the local council and could be as simple as ensuring there is a power socket for the tenant to plug in their own heater. I recommend that you contact the council in the area the property is located to find out what that particular council considers adequate as “other approved form of heating” under the Regulations and in relation to your daughter’s tenancy. To discuss your situation further, you can contact the Department of Building and Housing on 0800 TENANCY (0800 836 262).