Safe hot water temperatures and why they matter
Hot water that is too hot can cause serious burns in seconds, especially for children, older adults, or people with mobility or sensory impairments. Most public health guidance recommends setting the water heater thermostat to reduce scald risk while still allowing for effective cleaning and hygiene.
- Set the storage temperature to about 49°C (120°F) to reduce scald risk while maintaining hot water availability.
- Temperatures above 55°C (131°F) increase the risk of severe scalds and may require mixing valves or other controls.
- Anti-scald devices (thermostatic mixing valves) can be installed at the water heater or fixtures to limit outlet temperature.
Who is responsible for hot water safety in a rental?
In Saskatchewan, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining plumbing, heating, and hot water systems so rental units meet basic habitability standards. If hot water temperature or controls are unsafe or malfunctioning, tenants should notify the landlord in writing and request repairs or adjustments.
If a landlord does not respond, tenants may seek help from the provincial residential tenancy office to resolve the issue or file a dispute.[1]
Documenting the problem and making an effective request
Documenting the condition and your request gives you stronger protection if a dispute follows. Take dated photos, record measured temperatures, and keep copies of written requests and any responses.
- Measure outlet temperature with a kitchen or bath thermometer and note the time and faucet used.
- Send a written request to the landlord describing the unsafe temperature and the remedy you want, such as lowering the thermostat or installing a mixing valve.
- Follow up by phone or in-person and keep a log of calls, names, and dates.
Repairs, timelines, and when to escalate
Many unsafe hot water issues require prompt attention because they affect health and safety. If the landlord does not arrange timely repairs after your written request, tenants can pursue formal remedies through the provincial residential tenancy body.
- Request immediate or expedited repairs when a hazard exists and note any response deadlines in writing.
- If no adequate action is taken, file a formal application or complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies (see Help and Support / Resources below).
- Keep records of any temporary measures you take and expenses incurred; these may be relevant in a hearing about remedies or compensation.
Practical in-unit precautions tenants can use now
While awaiting repairs, tenants can take steps to reduce scald risk without altering the system permanently.
- Run cold water first, then add hot, and always test with a hand before bathing a child or older adult.
- Use bath spouts and handles that limit outlet speed or use bath thermometers for children.
- Consider temporary anti-scald faucet attachments if safe and permitted by your landlord; document any installation and get permission first.
When to get help: official resources and forms
Contact the provincial residential tenancy office for guidance on filing complaints, disputes, or applications related to repairs and habitability. The main official pages list forms and explain how to submit applications, timelines, and hearing procedures.[2]
For general tenant safety guidance see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and for repair responsibilities see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities. You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare listings if a unit lacks basic safety features.
FAQ
- What temperature should my hot water be set to in a rental unit?
- Many health and safety sources recommend about 49°C (120°F) at the water heater; if outlets exceed safe temperatures, ask your landlord to lower the thermostat or install a mixing valve.
- Can my landlord refuse to lower the water heater temperature?
- Landlords must maintain systems so the unit is habitable and safe; unreasonable refusal to address a safety concern can be raised with the provincial residential tenancy office.
- What if my landlord doesn’t respond to a written repair request?
- Document your request and follow the formal complaint or application process with the Office of Residential Tenancies; the provincial office can explain deadlines and hearing procedures.
How-To
- Measure the tap temperature: fill a cup from the faucet at usual hot setting and use a thermometer to record the temperature.
- Write a clear repair request: include measured temperature, photos, date, and the remedy you seek, then send it to your landlord and keep a copy.
- Follow up and set a reasonable deadline for response; note all communications and any promised dates for repair.
- If there is no timely fix, submit a formal application to the Office of Residential Tenancies with your documentation and request a hearing.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must keep hot water systems safe and tenants should report unsafe temperatures in writing.
- Document measurements, communications, and any expenses to support a dispute if needed.
- Anti-scald devices and thermostat adjustments are common, effective remedies to reduce burn risk.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies — Government of Saskatchewan
- Ministry of Justice — Government of Saskatchewan
- Renting and owning a home — Government of Saskatchewan
