Adaptation to heat stress, human behavior and heat resistant characteristics of the residential environment are critical to achieving resilient human settlements. Through a survey of households in mass-developed housing in Akure (Nigeria), complemented by semi-structured interviews, this study identifies behavioural responses to heat and housing adaptations made to deal with heat stress. Top behavioural responses by the residents include using fans, keeping themselves hydrated, changing to lighter clothes and relocating to shaded space. The common post-occupancy adaptation measures include installing cooling devices, using light curtains and installing nets for windows and entrance doors. Heat resistant features that residents would want to be part of future housing development also came to the fore. These findings show that mass housing development should consciously incorporate heat resistance features while also promoting lifestyle approaches in adapting to heat.     Â