What should I do if bed bugs came from a neighbor? - briefly
«Contact the landlord or property manager promptly to arrange a professional inspection and treatment, isolate and launder all personal items in hot water, and report the infestation to local health authorities if required».
What should I do if bed bugs came from a neighbor? - in detail
«If an adjacent unit is the source of a bed‑bug infestation, immediate action is required to contain and eradicate the pests.»
First, verify the presence of insects by inspecting bedding, mattress seams, nightstands, and baseboards. Look for live bugs, shed skins, or tiny dark spots (fecal stains). Use a flashlight and magnifier for accuracy. Document findings with photographs and timestamps; these records support future communications with property managers or insurers.
Next, isolate the affected area. Wash all linens, clothing, and curtains in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Place items that cannot be laundered in sealed plastic bags. Vacuum carpets, floor seams, and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container.
Notify the landlord, property manager, or homeowners’ association promptly. Provide the documented evidence and request a professional pest‑control assessment. Request that the responsible party arrange treatment for both the source unit and the affected unit to prevent re‑infestation.
Engage a licensed exterminator. Confirm that the treatment plan includes:
- Chemical application targeting cracks, crevices, and voids where bugs hide.
- Heat treatment of rooms and furniture to reach lethal temperatures (≥ 50 °C) for a minimum of 90 minutes.
- Application of insect growth regulators to disrupt the life cycle.
- Follow‑up inspections at 2‑week intervals to ensure elimination.
During treatment, limit movement of personal belongings between units. Seal any items that must be moved in airtight containers. Avoid sharing laundry facilities with other residents until the infestation is declared cleared.
After professional treatment, implement preventive measures:
- Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bed‑bug interceptors.
- Keep clutter to a minimum; store items off the floor.
- Inspect secondhand furniture before introducing it into the home.
- Perform regular visual checks of sleeping areas, especially after travel.
If the landlord fails to act, consult local health‑department regulations and consider filing a formal complaint. Retain all correspondence and receipts for potential legal or insurance claims.
Finally, maintain vigilance for several months, as bed‑bug eggs can hatch weeks after treatment. Prompt detection and immediate response will reduce the risk of a prolonged outbreak.