Some Bronx tenants complain their landlords have left them out in the cold as the temperature drops.

News 12 The Bronx spoke to two women who say they have to stand over a pot of boiling water to keep warm. Their landlord argues the heat is controlled by a computer and the temperature is set according to regulations. By law, between October 1 and May 31 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. thermostats must be set at 68 degrees when the outside temperature is below 55 degrees. During the hours of 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. thermostats must be set to 55 degrees when the outside temperature is below 40 degrees.

Lawmakers urge tenants to contact the city?s 311 hotline to report landlords who break the rules. Officials also say residents should record the indoor temperature several times a day to have proof to back up their claims. Housing officials can reduce a tenant?s rent or take landlords to court if they are not following the rules.

Related InformationNYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal718-563-5678