Boiler is off

Many New Yorkers do not own their own living space. Many New Yorkers also expect that their boiler will be off some days. I don't understand how come its common knowledge. I get having a wearing an extra sweater because you get colder faster than others at the office or a small personal heater. But when there is no heat, buildings get cold... very cold. I think New Yorkers prepare for this "emergency" every winter. But can the normal be considered an emergency? Who is accountable of ensuring that there is heat and hot water in your building? Is it enough for management to post a sign saying there will be no steam this weekend?

The fact that many tenants count it normal for this to happen once or twice in a season; speaks about NY quality of life. I believe, because housing in NYC is not affordable , but also sub-standard. I dare say in some cases residents hesitate to hold their property managers accountable. If you go through no heat or hot water twice every year. Even it is random, it should be address.
Living in sub-standard conditions leads to a sense of disenfranchisement. Tenants don't hold landlords fully accountable > landlords don't address issues >  Tenants don't report poor conditions > landlords gradually provide less or  circumstances limit their ability to serve residents adequately. Residents at the end of the day, become accustom to living in poor living conditions.