Frigid temperatures raise concerns for homes and tenants across Long Island
While homeowners may be able to protect their pipes, some renters are facing a more serious issue: a lack of heat altogether.
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Long Island is facing a stretch of dangerously cold weather, and experts warn the frigid temperatures can pose serious risks — not only to residents’ health, but also to their homes.
Plumbers say frozen and burst pipes are among the most common and costly problems during extreme cold snaps. Gregory Martino, of Martino Plumbing & Heating,says homeowners can take a few simple steps to reduce the risk.
One of his top recommendations is to leave sink cabinets open if they are located along exterior walls. Doing so allows warm air to circulate around pipes, making them less likely to freeze. He also advises letting faucets drip slightly, since running water is less likely to freeze than standing water.
While homeowners may be able to protect their pipes, some renters are facing a more serious issue: a lack of heat altogether.
“We hear the same thing every year — tenants with problems with heat,” said Ian Wilder of Long Island Housing Services.
Wilder says his organization is already seeing complaints from tenants who say their landlords are failing to provide adequate heat during the cold weather. In some cases, he says, families with children — including children with special needs — have been left in homes where the heat was completely shut off.
Local laws require landlords to maintain minimum indoor temperatures during the heating season, which runs from Oct. 1 through May 31.
In Nassau County, landlords must keep indoor temperatures at or above 68 degrees during the day and 65 degrees at night when outdoor temperatures fall below 55 degrees. In Suffolk County, the indoor temperature must be at least 68 degrees at all times, regardless of the time of day.
Tenant advocates urge renters to notify their landlord immediately if the heat falls below legal limits. If the issue is not resolved, tenants are encouraged to contact local authorities.
In Nassau County, tenants can call the Department of Health’s Bureau of Environmental Investigation at 516-227-9715 on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. After hours, on weekends, or on holidays, residents can contact the county’s emergency line at 516-742-6154.
In Suffolk County, residents can report heating violations by calling 631-852-5900 or emailing PHP@SuffolkCountyNY.gov.
Tenants can also reach out to News 12 with complaints at 516-393-1394.
