The article discusses the problem of non-adjustment of the method of settling the costs of heating premises in multi-family buildings with the use of individual heat cost allocators to the actual conditions of housing operation. The authors presented their own findings resulting from the analysis of data on heat consumption and c.o. in multi-family buildings of a housing estate and completed inspections of residential premises. On this basis, conclusions were formulated regarding the reasons for overheating of residential premises determined based on the readings of heat cost allocators.