What should I do if I rented an apartment that has bedbugs? - briefly
Notify the landlord or property manager at once and demand professional extermination as stipulated in the lease. Document the infestation with photographs, retain all correspondence, and if remediation is inadequate, contact local health authorities or pursue legal action.
What should I do if I rented an apartment that has bedbugs? - in detail
If a rented unit becomes infested with bedbugs, immediate action is required to limit health risks and property damage.
First, document the infestation. Take clear photographs of live insects, shed skins, and any bite marks on bedding. Preserve samples in sealed containers for evidence.
Second, notify the landlord or property manager in writing. Use certified mail or email with read receipt to create a verifiable record. State the discovery date, describe the evidence, and request professional extermination within a reasonable timeframe, typically 48–72 hours.
Third, request a written plan from the landlord outlining the pest‑control provider, treatment dates, and follow‑up inspections. Verify that the chosen contractor is licensed and experienced with bedbug eradication.
Fourth, protect personal belongings. Wash all clothing, linens, and fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Seal items that cannot be laundered in airtight plastic bags and store them away from the infested area.
Fifth, limit the spread of insects. Keep the living space uncluttered, vacuum floors and mattresses daily, and discard vacuum bags in sealed containers. Avoid moving furniture or boxes between rooms until treatment is completed.
Sixth, understand legal rights. In many jurisdictions, landlords are obligated to provide habitable housing free from pests. If the landlord fails to act promptly, the tenant may:
- Withhold rent until the problem is resolved, following local statutes.
- Seek reimbursement for extermination costs incurred personally.
- File a complaint with the local health department or housing authority.
- Pursue legal action for breach of the warranty of habitability, potentially terminating the lease without penalty.
Seventh, monitor health symptoms. Bedbug bites can cause itching, allergic reactions, or secondary infections. Consult a medical professional if severe reactions occur.
Eighth, consider temporary relocation. If the infestation is extensive or the landlord’s response is delayed, arrange short‑term housing and keep receipts for accommodation expenses, which may be recoverable through legal channels.
Finally, retain all correspondence, invoices, photographs, and receipts. This documentation supports any dispute resolution, insurance claim, or court proceeding.
By following these steps, the tenant safeguards health, preserves evidence, and enforces contractual obligations regarding pest‑free rental premises.