Heating and cooling emergencies in New York

Heating contractors and plumbers for breakdowns.

100 pros in New York

New York City sets its own heating rules, and they shape any emergency call. Building owners must provide heat from October 1 to May 31, called Heat Season, and hot water must be available every day of the year at a constant minimum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. During Heat Season, apartments must reach at least 68°F between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM when it is below 55°F outside, and at least 62°F overnight. If you rent, a failed boiler is first a matter for your building owner, so report it to them before you call anyone. If you own, check the work before you hire. The Department of Buildings says certain boiler or fuel storage work can only be done by a tradesperson or contractor with a specialized license, and permits go to registered trade licence holders. Ask to see the licence, ask who pulls the permit, and get the scope of work in writing.

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  1. Uncle Mike’s Home Service – Heating & Cooling System Installation, Servicing & Repair Services in Central NJ

    Heat pumps, furnaces, boilers and ductless mini-splits are its main jobs, with heating repair and HVAC work. Lincroft, Red Bank and Middlesex are its towns, and free estimates are offered.

    • Website checked

    Rated 5.0 out of 5 543 Google reviews · Nov 2026

  2. AMHAC

    Family owned since 1949, it installs and repairs furnaces, boilers and heat pumps, including Mitsubishi ductless systems. Service runs at any hour, and Yonkers, White Plains and the Bronx are served.

    • Website checked

    Rated 4.9 out of 5 1,550 Google reviews · Nov 2026

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What to know in New York

Before you hire

  1. Have fuel-burning appliances such as a furnace or boiler inspected by a professional at least once a year.

    Source: canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

  2. Get written quotes from at least three contractors for the same work, and check references from recent clients.

    Source: ised-isde.canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

  3. Put it in a written contract: the work, price, deposit, start and finish dates, warranty, permits and clean-up. Paying cash to skip it leaves you no recourse.

    Source: ised-isde.canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

Questions about hiring in New York

Who can work on a boiler or fuel storage in New York City?

The Department of Buildings says certain boiler or fuel storage work can only be done by a skilled tradesperson or contractor with a specialized license. Permits are issued to registered trade licence holders. Ask for the licence details in writing before work starts, and ask who will apply for the permit. NYC Department of Buildings (source, opens in a new tab)

What temperature must my apartment be during Heat Season?

Heat Season runs from October 1 to May 31. When it is below 55°F outside, apartments must be at least 68°F between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Overnight, from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, they must be at least 62°F regardless of the outdoor temperature. NYC Mayor's Office (source, opens in a new tab)

What should a written quote for an emergency repair include?

Ask for the business name and licence details, a description of the fault and the work proposed, parts and labour listed separately, who handles any permit, the timeline, and the warranty terms. Compare at least two quotes on the same scope, and do not sign anything you have not read.

Will insurance cover a burst pipe after a heating failure?

Homeowners policies cover damage from a sudden and accidental discharge from a plumbing system. If the insurer decides you neglected the plumbing by not taking preventative measures against freezing, burst-pipe damage may not be covered. Keep records of repairs and steps you took to protect pipes. National Association of Insurance Commissioners (source, opens in a new tab)