What Are My Requirements as a Housing Provider Under the Chicago Heat Ordinance?

The Chicago Heat Ordinance ensures that housing providers supply adequate heat to tenants during Chicago’s defined “heat season,” which runs from September 15 to June 1. Heat is required for all habitable spaces, including bathrooms, but excludes areas such as closets, hallways, storage areas, and utility rooms.

Heat Requirements for Different Systems:



Individual Heating Equipment

If tenants have their own heating systems, the equipment must maintain an indoor temperature of 68 degrees during typical Chicago winter conditions.

Shared Heating Systems

For buildings with shared systems, temperatures must meet the following minimums:

• 68 degrees from 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
• 66 degrees from 10:30 PM to 8:30 AM

If you operate a shared system, such as a boiler for a multi-unit building, ensure these minimums are met for every unit.

Consider slightly overshooting these temperatures to compensate for heat loss as it travels from the boiler to individual units.

Important: Tenants can use portable space heaters, but these devices cannot substitute for meeting the required heating standards.

Measuring Compliance

To verify compliance, measure the indoor temperature three feet above the floor and at least three feet away from any exterior wall. Ensure windows and doors are closed, and portable heaters are not in use during measurement.

Drexel Properties recommends using an infrared instant thermometer to quickly and accurately check temperatures. This device can provide objective data to show tenants if the heating requirements are being met, avoiding subjective disputes like "it feels too cold." If the temperature falls below the minimum, adjust the boiler settings immediately.

The Importance of Compliance

Experiencing a lack of heat is not only uncomfortable but can also be dangerous. The city of Chicago takes this issue seriously and imposes fines of up to $1,000 per day per incident for noncompliance—regardless of the reason. Regular maintenance of heating systems is crucial to:

• Avoid costly fines.
• Ensure efficient and reliable heating.
• Provide a positive tenant experience, especially during extreme winter temperatures.

Proactive maintenance is far more efficient and cost-effective than scrambling for emergency fixes in subzero weather.

Additional Resources

The full Chicago Heat Ordinance can be found here: https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/chicago/latest/chicago_il/0-0-0-2676217

Disclaimer: We are not attorneys, and this is not legal advice. However, with over 20 years of experience managing properties and working with boilers, Drexel Properties is here to help. If you’re facing challenges meeting heating requirements or have further questions, contact us at help@drexelproperties.com.