What should be done if you rented an apartment with bed bugs? - briefly
Notify the landlord right away, demand a professional pest‑control treatment, and record the infestation with photos and written communication. If the landlord does not respond promptly, report the problem to the local health department or housing authority and explore lease termination or legal action.
What should be done if you rented an apartment with bed bugs? - in detail
If bed‑bugs appear in a leased residence, act promptly to protect health, preserve evidence, and enforce tenancy rights.
First, document the infestation. Photograph each finding, note dates, and keep any insects in sealed containers. This record supports future communications and legal claims.
Second, notify the landlord or property manager in writing. State the problem clearly, attach the documentation, and request professional extermination within a reasonable timeframe (typically 48–72 hours). Use certified mail or an email with read receipt to verify delivery.
Third, follow the landlord’s remediation plan. Accept only licensed pest‑control services that use integrated‑pest‑management techniques, including heat treatment, steam, or approved insecticides. Request a written work order detailing chemicals, treatment dates, and safety precautions.
While waiting for treatment, minimize the spread:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks; immediately seal the vacuum bag in a plastic bag.
- Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered covers rated for bed‑bugs.
- Reduce clutter where insects can hide.
If the landlord fails to act within the agreed period, consider the following options:
- Send a formal “notice to cure” demanding remediation by a specific deadline.
- Withhold rent only after consulting local housing statutes and placing the withheld amount in an escrow account.
- Report the issue to the local health department, which may issue a violation notice to the property owner.
- Pursue small‑claims litigation for repair costs, relocation expenses, and any damage to personal property.
Maintain a log of all communications, invoices, and receipts. Should the situation require relocation, request reimbursement for temporary housing from the landlord, citing the habitability breach.
Finally, review the lease for clauses addressing pest infestations and verify state or municipal tenant‑rights statutes, as many jurisdictions impose strict landlord obligations for bed‑bug remediation. Armed with documentation and knowledge of legal duties, you can ensure a swift, effective resolution.