As temperatures drop, New York’s Attorney General is reminding residents of their legal protections for heat and hot water. A new consumer alert outlines key rules for winter utility shutoffs—and what to do if your rights are violated.
What protections do New Yorkers have?
From November 1 through April 15, New York utility companies must follow strict rules before cutting off essential services. These laws aim to ensure residents aren’t left in the cold—literally.
Here’s what you need to know:
- No shutoffs without extra effort: Utilities must make multiple attempts to contact customers before terminating service in winter.
- Grace periods apply: Termination cannot happen until 35 days after a bill is past due—and a final 15-day notice is required.
- Holiday protections: Shutoffs are not allowed during the two-week period spanning Christmas and New Year’s.
- Health and safety matter: If someone in the home is seriously ill, disabled, recently bereaved, or if there are children, utilities cannot legally shut off service.
What if your heat or water gets shut off?
New Yorkers who believe their rights have been violated should take immediate action:
- File a complaint online
- Call the Attorney General’s helpline: 1-800-771-7755
(TTY: 1-800-788-9898 for deaf or hard of hearing)
Know your legal backing
These consumer protections are part of New York’s Home Energy Fair Practices Act (HEFPA) and Energy Affordability Program (EAP). Both are designed to ensure safe, uninterrupted access to essential services—especially during the state’s harsh winters.
Attorney General Letitia James emphasized the urgency, saying, “No New Yorker should be left without heat or hot water as days and nights grow colder.”
Where to get more help
The New York Department of Public Service offers detailed information on utility shutoff laws, energy assistance programs, and ways to reduce winter energy costs.
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