The heating season regularly raises questions about the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. Landlords are obliged to provide a functioning heating system that guarantees the minimum standard of room temperature during the heating season (October 1 to April 30). If this is not the case, tenants may be able to demand a rent reduction. Defects such as a heating failure must be rectified immediately by the landlord.
During the heating period, the heating must guarantee a minimum temperature of 20 degrees Celsius during the day and 18 degrees Celsius at night. This regulation cannot be excluded by the tenancy agreement. Tenants are not obliged to heat all the time. However, they should be aware that incorrect heating behavior can cause damage to the apartment such as damp or mold. The basic temperature should be at least 16 degrees Celsius to avoid such damage.
If the heating breaks down in winter, tenants should report the defect immediately, preferably in writing. The landlord must then react quickly and is obliged to carry out the repair. If there is no response, the tenant can hire a company or reduce the rent. To reduce heating costs, tenants can make effective savings by airing the room properly, ventilating the radiators and maintaining an appropriate room temperature.
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