What should be done if an apartment was sold with bedbugs present? - briefly
Contact the seller promptly to demand professional extermination and compensation, documenting the infestation for any legal claim. If the seller refuses, file a complaint with local consumer‑protection or housing authorities and arrange licensed pest control at the seller’s expense.
What should be done if an apartment was sold with bedbugs present? - in detail
When a newly purchased residence is found to be infested with bedbugs, the buyer must act quickly to protect health, property value, and legal rights.
First, isolate the problem. Do not move furniture or personal items to other rooms without sealing them in plastic bags, because insects can hitchhike. Inspect all belongings, especially bedding, curtains, and upholstered furniture, and place any suspect items in sealed containers for later treatment.
Second, document the infestation. Take clear photographs of live bugs, eggs, and any skin reactions. Record dates, locations within the unit, and any communication with the seller. These records form the basis of any legal or insurance claim.
Third, notify the seller immediately in writing. Specify the findings, attach evidence, and request remediation according to the purchase agreement or local consumer‑protection statutes. If the contract includes a warranty or “as‑is” clause, review the language to determine the seller’s obligations.
Fourth, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. Select a company with certified bed‑bug expertise, obtain a written inspection report, and follow the recommended treatment plan, which may involve heat‑treatment, chemical applications, or a combination. Keep all invoices and treatment records.
Fifth, explore legal recourse. If the seller refuses to cooperate, consider the following options:
- File a claim with the small‑claims court if the monetary loss falls within jurisdictional limits.
- Initiate a lawsuit for breach of contract or misrepresentation, seeking damages for treatment costs, lost rental income, and diminished property value.
- Contact a local consumer‑protection agency or housing authority, which may mediate or impose penalties on the seller.
Sixth, inform the homeowner’s insurance carrier. Provide documentation of the infestation and treatment expenses; some policies cover pest‑related losses, especially if the issue was undisclosed at purchase.
Finally, implement preventive measures after treatment. Encourage regular inspections, maintain low‑humidity conditions, and avoid second‑hand furniture without thorough examination. These steps reduce the likelihood of re‑infestation and protect the investment.