Payments are coming, but the heating is not working: how to avoid payments for inaction

In November 2025, in Ukraine, residents of apartment buildings received heating bills even though they did not receive heat. This caused significant indignation among the population, especially in regions where the heating season was delayed due to favorable weather or technical issues.

Experts note that billing can be made for “readiness to provide service”, and not only for actual heat consumption. This means that heat supply organizations can issue bills for ensuring the system’s technical operability, even if heating was not turned on. This practice is common in many settlements where heat energy is not individually metered.

Additionally, if users did not provide their meter readings on time, payment documents can be formed based on average monthly rates or data from previous periods. In some cases, advance invoices are issued and later adjusted based on actual consumption.

Lawyers recommend not to ignore such payments, but also not to rush to pay them. Suppose there is no heat in the house. In that case, residents should contact the heating company with a written complaint, record the room temperature, take photos of the meter readings (if any), and demand a recalculation. If the company refuses, it is recommended to contact local self-government bodies or the State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection to resolve the conflict.