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Here’s what you can do if you’re having heat problems

Pabio December 7, 2024

MILWAUKEE — During the recent cold snap, we received calls and messages from viewers almost daily about heat issues. We follow up as much as possible, but other than contacting the news, what can renters and tenants do?

TMJ4 spoke with Nick Toman, general counsel for the Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee, to find out.

Here’s what you can do:

-The first step is to contact your landlord and document everything.

-Start with a phone call if that is the most convenient option.

-Follow up with a text message, email, or certified letter.

-Tracking ensures that you can demonstrate communication with the owner regarding issues, such as lack of heating.

Watch: Milwaukee attorney shares tips for tenants if they’re experiencing heat issues

Milwaukee attorney shares tips for tenants if they’re experiencing heat issues

Next steps:
If the landlord does not act in a timely manner, Toman recommends contacting the Department of Neighborhood Services and nonprofit community advocates.

It is common to see an increase in complaints about no or insufficient heat during the first cold period of winter.

However, since November, the city of Milwaukee has seen a 35% increase in complaints compared to a similar period last winter. The Department of Neighborhood Services diverted inspectors from other duties to help respond.

To visit the Department of Neighborhood Services website, click here.

To contact community advocates, click here.

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