No, the landlord cannot simply shut off your heat or any other utilities just because you are behind on your rent. Landlords are generally prohibited from intentionally depriving tenants of essential services like heat, water, electricity, or refrigeration. These services can only be temporarily interrupted if it is necessary for repairs or in the event of an emergency.
If your landlord has concerns about unpaid rent, they must follow the legal process, which typically involves filing a claim with the courts. Landlords cannot take unilateral actions like shutting off utilities or changing locks without a court order. Tenant-landlord disputes should be resolved through the appropriate legal channels, and tenants have rights to maintain basic utilities as long as they occupy the property.