My neighbor has bed bugs; what should I do?

My neighbor has bed bugs; what should I do? - briefly

Notify the landlord or housing authority promptly and request professional pest‑control treatment for the affected unit. Inspect your own living space, avoid bringing infested items inside, and follow quarantine guidelines to prevent spread.

My neighbor has bed bugs; what should I do? - in detail

Your adjacent resident is experiencing a bed‑bug infestation. Take immediate, organized action to protect your home and to address the problem responsibly.

1. Verify the situation.
   • Observe any signs of insects in shared walls, ceilings, or floors.
   • Look for small reddish‑brown spots on bedding, furniture, or walls.
   • If possible, obtain a photograph or a sample for professional identification.

2. Isolate your living space.
   • Seal cracks, gaps, and crevices around baseboards, windows, and doors with caulk or weather‑stripping.
   • Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bed‑bug covers; keep them on for at least one year.
   • Wash all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor joints daily; immediately discard the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag.

3. Communicate with the neighbor.
   • Approach calmly, present factual observations, and suggest contacting a pest‑control professional together.
   • Offer to share contact information for reputable exterminators.

4. Notify property management or landlord.
   • Provide a written summary of observations, dates, and any communication with the neighbor.
   • Request a formal inspection and coordinated treatment plan for the entire building or complex, as infestations frequently spread through walls and utility lines.

5. Understand legal options.
   • Review local housing codes and tenancy agreements for obligations regarding pest control.
   • If the landlord fails to act promptly, consider filing a complaint with the municipal health department or seeking legal counsel for possible remedies, such as rent reduction or lease termination.

6. Monitor after treatment.
   • Place interceptor traps under bed legs to catch any surviving insects.
   • Conduct weekly inspections for new bites, fecal spots, or live bugs.
   • Maintain the preventive measures listed above for at least six months, as bed‑bug eggs can hatch weeks after initial treatment.

By following these steps, you minimize the risk of infestation spreading to your unit, assist the affected neighbor in obtaining effective eradication, and uphold your rights as a tenant.