As temperatures soar in New York City, tenants find themselves grappling with the oppressive heat of the summer months. Unlike the winter, when landlords are obligated to provide sufficient heating, no such legal requirement exists for cooling during the hot season. This has led to growing discussions around potential legislation that could change this dynamic.
In the fall, the City Council explored a bill that would hold landlords accountable for providing air conditioning, thereby establishing a ‘cooling season’ in the summer, akin to the ‘heat season’ in the winter. With the recent announcement from the Department of Homeless Services mandating new shelters to include air conditioning, the topic is gaining momentum.
Mayor Eric Adams’ sustainability plan further supports this initiative, proposing that new construction should mandate cooling systems by 2025 and establishing a maximum indoor temperature by 2030. This approach mirrors actions in cities such as Dallas, which has set indoor temperature limits at 85 degrees.
While new legislation is debated, tenants are left to fend for themselves in sweltering conditions. Here are several steps residents can take to keep their apartments cool.
**Financial Assistance for Air Conditioning**
For those without air conditioning, the first step is to seek financial support. Local officials—such as City Council representatives, borough presidents, and the mayor’s office—may conduct free A/C giveaways. Private companies and independent charities, including local churches and mutual aid networks, could also have programs available.
However, tenants living in older buildings should be aware that their electrical systems might not accommodate modern air conditioning systems safely. Additionally, tenants with disabilities may have rights under the law to request reasonable accommodations from their landlords if their buildings cannot support standard cooling equipment. Resources from tenant advocacy groups, like Just Fix, provide guidance on these issues.
New York State, utilizing federal funds, has been able to offer financial assistance for air conditioning and fans through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). The program, which is available for eligible low-income New Yorkers, can cover up to $1,000 for air cooling units. Unfortunately, the program currently finds itself in limbo due to recent federal funding cuts, which raises concerns for the future of such assistance.
The Cooling Assistance program was scheduled to close on June 23, with $15 million allocated this year—lower than prior years when funding reached $22 million. This decrease has been attributed to the reduction in pandemic relief dollars that had temporarily bolstered the program.
In 2023, awareness is crucial as the eligibility window for HEAP is narrow, and funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Those meeting the criteria should apply for cooling assistance promptly, as funds tend to run out quickly, as evidenced in previous years when 25,000 households benefitted from HEAP, including over 10,000 in New York City.
For those who may not qualify for HEAP, a new initiative has been launched by Governor Kathy Hochul. This program is tailored for members of the state’s Essential Plan—designed for low-income residents outside Medicaid—and grants free air conditioning units to those with persistent asthma.
Advocates highlight the urgent need for increased state investment in cooling assistance, given the serious risks associated with heat exposure. With rising temperatures exacerbated by climate change, the importance of staying cool and safe is more apparent than ever.
**Recognizing the Dangers of Excessive Heat**
The summer heat can pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, such as seniors aged 65 and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies heat stress as a severe concern, and specific symptoms should prompt immediate action. Signs of heat stroke include a host of alarming indicators: body temperature exceeding 103 degrees Fahrenheit, hot and dry skin, rapid pulse, confusion, or fainting.
If someone exhibits these symptoms, it’s critical to call 911 immediately and move the person to a cooler environment. Providing cool clothing or a cool bath can help while waiting for emergency services, but it’s essential not to give them anything to drink, as advised by the CDC.
Community support during these heat waves is vital—neighbors are encouraged to check on elderly residents or those with health concerns to ensure their safety.
**Cooling Centers and Resources**
When the heat becomes unbearable, especially during official heat emergencies, residents should seek refuge in city-operated cooling centers. The city activates these facilities when weather forecasts predict a heat index of 95 degrees or higher over multiple days, or for any day designated to reach 100 degrees.
Even outside these emergencies, community spaces like libraries and senior centers serve as vital cooling spots. Residents are urged to utilize these resources to escape the heat when necessary.
Additional tips from climate justice advocates emphasize practical methods to remain cool during extreme heat. Suggestions include drinking room-temperature or cool water consistently, keeping blinds drawn in sunlit rooms, and avoiding the use of ovens or stoves. Using fans creatively by placing a bowl of ice or cool water in front can compound the cooling effect.
**Rights and Repairs for Existing Air Conditioning**
While tenants lack a legal right to air conditioning, many do have rights related to existing cooling systems in their apartments. If a rental unit comes equipped with air conditioning, landlords must ensure the functionality of these units.
In cases where air conditioning fails, tenants have the right to request repairs or replacements, particularly for machines that were included in the rental agreement. Rent-stabilized tenants should be cautious in requesting replacements, as asking for new units could risk raising rents. Advocates suggest requesting used units instead to avoid potential complications.
When landlords neglect repair requests, forming a tenant association can be an effective strategy, as many residents may experience similar issues. This collective effort can lead to more substantial pressure on landlords to act.
For serious grievances, tenants can file an HP Action, or Housing Part Action, in Housing Court. This official complaint process enables residents to seek justice when their cooling systems are not maintained. Detailed instructions are available to help tenants navigate the process, with support from organizations such as Housing Court Answers.
Filing an HP Action involves completing necessary paperwork and delivering the complaint to the landlord, typically through certified mail. While there is a fee of $45 to file, judges often waive this for qualifying tenants.
Until substantial legislative changes address the vast cooling needs in New York, tenants are encouraged to utilize the resources at their disposal to combat summer heat. Through informed actions and collective advocacy, residents can take steps toward improving their living conditions and ensure their safety during the hottest months of the year.
image source from：thecity
