The temperature your landlord must legally keep your home at right now — check what you measured, and how to report it if it's too cold.
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In Massachusetts your landlord has to keep your home warm through the colder months — it's the law, not a favour. This shows the temperature the law requires right now, lets you check what you measured, and walks through what to do if your place is too cold.
Right now · Wednesday, 5:29 pm EDT
Outside the heating season right now.
The minimum-heat rule applies from September 15 to June 15. It does not apply today.
Where to take the reading
The reading only counts if you take it the way the code measures it: about 5 feet above the floor and more than 5 feet from an outside wall or window. A thermometer held against a cold window reads low and isn't the legal figure — take it from the middle of the room.
Heat is also capped: during the season a room may not be forced above 78°F.
Hot water is a separate right, required all year round: your landlord must supply it between 110°F and 130°F.
BOS:311
After hours, weekends & holidays — dial 311
This tool explains the housing code and does the arithmetic — it is not legal advice, and it does not contact anyone for you. The city inspector makes the official determination.