Kentucky Heat and Hot Water Rights for Renters: Legal Requirements

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Kentucky, having reliable heat and hot water is essential for your comfort and safety. State law sets out habitability requirements for landlords, but not everyone knows what the rules are or how to act if problems arise. This guide explains your rights regarding heat and hot water, what your landlord must provide, and what you can do if repairs aren’t made.

What Kentucky Law Says About Heat and Hot Water

Under the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383), landlords must maintain their rental properties in a habitable condition. This includes supplying both heat and hot water, with systems kept safe and in good working order.^[1]

• Heating: The landlord must ensure the heating system functions properly and provides reasonable warmth during cold weather.
• Hot Water: The landlord must supply hot water at all times, ensuring fixtures work and the system is maintained.

Some cities in Kentucky, including Lexington and Louisville, have adopted the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) which provides stronger habitability protections. If you’re outside these areas, local ordinances may still require heat and hot water, so check with your city or county housing office.

What Systems and Temperatures Are Required?

While Kentucky state law does not set a specific temperature for heat or hot water, landlords are expected to supply “essential services” under KRS 383.595. Essential services include heat, hot water, running water, electricity, and more.^[2] Your local city or county might set minimum temperature standards—contact your local code enforcement office to find out.

If your landlord is responsible for heating and hot water but fails to make repairs, you have rights and options. Next, we’ll explain what steps you can take.

What to Do If You Have No Heat or Hot Water

If your rental is without heat or hot water, or the systems are unsafe or unreliable, you do not have to wait indefinitely. Here are practical steps to take:

• Contact your landlord: Notify your landlord of the problem in writing, with as much detail as possible (date, description, etc.).
• Keep records: Save emails, texts, and take photos of the issue as evidence.
• Give reasonable time: Allow your landlord a reasonable period to make repairs, unless it is an emergency (like no heat in winter).

How to Report Lack of Heat or Hot Water

Depending on your location, different agencies may help enforce habitability standards. In cities covered by URLTA (like Lexington-Fayette County), you can contact your local Code Enforcement Office. For Louisville, see Louisville Metro Housing.

Filing a Formal Complaint or Taking Legal Action

Under KRS 383.595, if a landlord fails to supply heat or hot water after written notice, you may:

• Arrange for the repair and deduct the cost from your rent (up to a set limit)
• Temporary alternative housing (and withhold rent) if the unit is unsafe
• Terminate your lease if repairs are not made within a reasonable time

You may need the "Tenant's Request for Repairs" form in some jurisdictions. For example, in Lexington, use the Tenant Request for Repairs form. Complete this form and submit it to your landlord to formally document the issue.

The Tribunal for Tenant Disputes in Kentucky

Kentucky does not have a statewide landlord-tenant tribunal. Instead, disputes are typically handled in Kentucky District Court. In Lexington, tenant complaints may also be filed through the city’s Code Enforcement office. All eviction, deposit, and repair disputes ultimately go to your local District Court.^[3]

Relevant Forms for Renters

• Tenant Request for Repairs (Lexington)
  Tenant Request for Repairs (PDF) - Use to formally notify your landlord of required heat or hot water repairs. Submit to the landlord and keep a copy for your records.
• District Court Complaint Forms
  When unresolved, you can file a complaint at Kentucky District Court. Ask your local circuit clerk for the latest forms used for "Forcible Detainer" (eviction) or civil actions regarding habitability.

1. Can my landlord shut off my heat or hot water for nonpayment of rent?
   No. It is illegal for a landlord to intentionally shut off heat or hot water as a way of forcing payment or eviction. Only a court can order an eviction.
2. How quickly must my landlord restore heat or hot water after a breakdown?
   Kentucky law says repairs must be made within "reasonable time" after written notice. For emergencies, like no heat in winter, authorities may require a faster response.
3. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn’t fix the heat or hot water?
   In some Kentucky areas governed by URLTA, you may pay for repairs and deduct the cost, but only by following specific legal procedures. Always provide written notice first.
4. What do I do if my rental is unsafe in the winter?
   If your unit is uninhabitable due to lack of heat, you may be able to terminate your lease or seek temporary housing. Document everything and contact local authorities.
5. Is my landlord required to provide a specific temperature for heat or hot water?
   Kentucky law does not set a specific temperature, but systems must be maintained as “safe and in good working order.” Local ordinances may address temperature minimums.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Read the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383)
• Kentucky District Courts – Find your court and access landlord-tenant forms
• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights
• Louisville Metro Housing – File complaints or check housing codes
• Lexington Housing Code Enforcement

---

1. ^[1] Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. ^[2] KRS 383.595 – Landlord's duty to supply essential services
3. ^[3] Kentucky District Courts – Housing and Eviction Cases

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations