What should we do if neighbors have bedbugs? - briefly
Inspect your unit for signs, seal cracks and gaps, and notify the property manager or landlord promptly for professional treatment. Avoid transferring items between apartments and launder all clothing and bedding on high heat.
What should we do if neighbors have bedbugs? - in detail
If a nearby dwelling is confirmed to have a bed‑bug infestation, immediate protective measures are essential to prevent spread to your own space.
First, assess the risk. Inspect your sleeping area, furniture, and personal belongings for live insects, shed skins, or small dark spots (fecal stains). Use a flashlight and magnifying glass, focusing on seams, folds, and crevices. Document any findings.
Next, secure your environment:
- Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, bed‑bug‑proof covers; keep them sealed 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 floors, carpets, and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Reduce clutter that could hide insects, especially under beds and behind furniture.
- Seal cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, floors, and around pipes with caulk or appropriate sealant.
Communicate with the property manager or landlord:
- Report the neighboring infestation promptly, providing any evidence of potential spread.
- Request a professional pest‑control assessment for your unit, even if no insects are observed.
- Ask for a written plan outlining treatment procedures, timelines, and follow‑up inspections.
If professional treatment is scheduled:
- Follow all pre‑treatment instructions, such as removing personal items from treated rooms and covering or discarding infested belongings as advised.
- Remain out of the treated area for the duration specified by the exterminator, typically several hours.
- After treatment, repeat the washing and vacuuming steps to eliminate any survivors.
Maintain vigilance:
- Conduct monthly inspections of sleeping areas and common zones.
- Use interceptor traps under each leg of the bed to monitor for activity.
- Promptly address any new signs of infestation to prevent re‑establishment.
Should the landlord fail to act, consult local health‑department regulations or tenant‑rights organizations for guidance on legal remedies and possible rent‑withholding options.