What is the legal temperature for tenants in the UK?

When it comes to rental homes in the UK, there isn’t one official law that says the heating must reach a specific temperature. However, landlords are legally required to make sure the property is warm, safe, and free from “excess cold.”

So what temperature should rental homes reach?

Most guidance used by councils and housing bodies suggests:
- Around 18°C for bedrooms
- Around 21°C for living rooms and communal areas

If a property can’t reach these temperatures when it’s cold outside, it may be considered unfit for habitation, and the landlord could be asked to make improvements.

What landlords are legally expected to provide

You must ensure:
- A working, reliable heating system
- Heating available in every habitable room
- Reasonable insulation and draught-proofing
- Repairs carried out promptly if the property gets too cold

This applies to all rental homes, including HMOs and student properties.

How can reliable thermostats help?

A simple heating control like the TIME:O:STAT makes it easier for tenants to heat their home safely while helping landlords keep an eye on efficiency.

Features like open window detection, energy monitoring, and boost timers help ensure homes stay warm without wasting heat.