My tenant is complaining that their heater is not warm enough..

[Jina Lee]

I have a multi-unit property in Los Angeles with brand-new central AC/heater. 

One of the tenants is complaining that the heater is not warm enough... They say heater was working, but they insist that it is not warm enough for their new-born baby. So I said I could buy some space heater and let them use, but they say they don't want to pay the extra electricity bill and they don't want space heaters installed because they don't have enough spaces to keep them. The central heater installed is also electric, so either way, they'll have to pay more electricity bill because they pay their own electricity bills.

I have more units in the property with exactly same heating system, but other tenants have no complaints.

I am not sure what the minimum temperature requirement in Los Angleles, but if the unit can be heated higher than 70°F with central heater, do I need to fix the heater?

[Kenneth Garrett]

@Jina Lee

I can’t speak for LA but the international code requires a minimum of 68 degrees.  In certain warmer climate states it is 65 degrees.  If you meet the minimum requirement you are in compliance.

I have spent my career as a building inspector and you certainly need to meet the minimum.  I would inspect there unit and meet with them to determine the temperature.  There is a very specific requirement in how to measure the temperature in a room, but at least look at the thermostat.

Good Luck.