Monday, October 3, 2011

Assemblyman Dinowitz Reminds Community of Heat Regulations

October 1st is the beginning of the heating season. Here is useful information sent by Assemblyman Dinowitz, related to heat and hot water regulations and a free chart his office has available for tenants to keep adequate records when property owners do not provide adequate services.

Gregory
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Assemblyman Dinowitz Reminds Community of Heat Regulations

With the cold weather of the winter soon upon us, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz is reminding his constituents of the rules and regulations regarding heat and hot water.

The heating season began on October 1 and continues until May 31. Between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. heat must register 68 degrees Fahrenheit when the outside temperature falls below 55 degrees. Between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. heat must register 55 degrees when the outside temperature falls below 40 degrees. Hot water must be at least 120 degrees 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

If these rules are not being followed, tenants can file a complaint with the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development by calling 311. If they live in a rent stabilized or rent controlled apartment, tenants can also apply for a rent reduction with the NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal. The application form for a rent reduction is available in Assemblyman Dinowitz’s district office.

Tenants should keep good records of each time the required heat service is not maintained. “If you are not receiving proper heat, you should write down the inside and outside temperatures and the date and time of each occurrence. You can then file a complaint using this information,” said Assemblyman Dinowitz.

Assemblyman Dinowitz has prepared an easy to follow card with a chart to help people keep records. Constituents can receive the free card at his district office located at 3107 Kingsbridge Avenue (just off West 231st Street) or by calling 718-796-5345.

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