Dear Editor:
Can my landlord turn off my heat?
Watching Global news on Dec. 9, there were residents from a New Westminster apartment, which have not had heat during these cold months. The tenants were interviewed, however, the owner identification and face was blurred and protected. What an unfair practice.
Under the Residential Tenancy Act, it is against the law for a landlord to turn off (terminate) or restrict a service or facility that is essential to the tenant's use of the rental unit. This includes heat, hot water, electricity and any other important service related to your tenancy. The landlord cannot terminate or restrict your heat; it is illegal, even in the spring and summer time. The landlord "must maintain the rental unit in a good state of repair and it must comply with health, housing and safety standards required by law. This means maintaining appliances such as a stove and refrigerator, and providing heat and essential services such as water and electricity." This is B.C. law for landlords.
This owner went on to say he did not know there was no heat. Really? One tenant said it has been years like this. Renters, know your rights and take some action.
Renters get help: Go to the www.tenants.bc.ca.
Kimberly Hayek
