New Heating Law Saves Renters Money
A new energy law can save renters money this winter.
The new law states that tenants and landlords can negotiate a rent decrease if heat in a place of residence is kept under 68 degrees. The idea is that by lowering the heat landlords can save on the overall cost, ultimately passing on the savings to the tenants.
When negotiating a decrease in rent, a landlord may provide heat lower than 68 degrees only if an agreement is signed by both the tenant and landlord.
The agreement must:
• Be written in plain English in at least 12 point font.
• Be separate from the lease.
• State that the landlord and tenant are free to cancel agreement with reasonable notice.
• Set a minimum thermostat temperature of no less than 62 degrees.
There’s no set amount to the rental discount, as it’s left up to the discretion of the landlord and tenants, however, the savings may be significant enough for some Mainers to consider.
A sample heating agreement can be found at: www.ptla.org/ptlasite/PDF/heating_agreement.pdf.
The new law attempts to establish a minimum heating level and excludes renters with children under the age of five and those over the age of 65. The law does not protect tenants who control their own thermostat and choose to set it lower than 68 degrees, nor can tenants or landlords set the thermostat below 62 degrees.
By state law, a heating system in a rented residency must:
• Be able to heat a unit or building to 68 degrees up to 20 degrees below zero.
• Keep pipes from freezing.
• Not “injure the health” of someone living in the building.
If the heating system in your residence does not meet the aforementioned standards, it is advised to speak with your landlord. If that doesn’t work, a formal letter should be sent to your landlord via certified mail and a complaint should be made to a local code enforcement officer. Those with questions on how to act should contact the Maine Pine Tree Legal Assistance for help.
Adequate heat during a long Maine winter is a health and safety concern that should be taken seriously. If you or a loved one is in need of assistance there are many services and organizations available to help. With the help of the new state law and philanthropy of many non-profit organizations throughout the state, Mainers can keep warm during the winter and maybe even save a few dollars while doing so.
For more information on heating assistance in Maine please visit: http://www.ptla.org/ptlasite/news/heating.htm.
