Title
Recognizing inadequate heating standards in rental housing across Philadelphia and emphasizing the need to efficiently and comprehensively address heating issues throughout the City.
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WHEREAS, On December 1st, 2024 the City of Philadelphia declared its first "Code Blue" of the 2024-2025 Winter season, recognizing that frigid temperatures create hazardous living conditions; and
WHEREAS, Heating within homes provides refuge from the harsh weather and temperatures that are common during winter months; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia is home to hundreds of thousands of rental properties, all ranging in quality of utility services provided by landlords; and
WHEREAS, Title 4, Section PM-602 HEATING FACILITIES of The Philadelphia Code outlines requirements for the provision of heat within rental properties; and
WHEREAS, Under The Code, dwellings must be provided with heating facilities capable of maintaining a room temperature of 68?? Fahrenheit in all habitable rooms from October 1st through April 30th of each year, as well as during the months of May or September when the outside temperature falls below 60?? Fahrenheit; and
WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia recommends that those who are experiencing issues with heating within their home contact Philadelphia's public service system 311, at which point the concern is forwarded to the Department of Licensing and Inspections for additional investigation; and
WHEREAS, The Department of Licenses and Inspections will respond within 1-3 business days and investigate the complaint. If the investigation concludes in finding that the property does not provide adequate heat, the Department will give the landlord 10 days to fix the issue; and
WHEREAS, The Department of License and Inspections will investigate the matter on the behalf of the tenant without functioning heat. If tenant complaints are validated, The Department of License and Inspections is authorized to issue a cease-and-desist order to the landlord ...
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