Who should be called if neighbors have bedbugs? - briefly
Contact your landlord or property‑management office immediately, and have them arrange a licensed pest‑control professional to treat the unit. If the problem persists or spreads to other apartments, report it to the local health department or housing authority.
Who should be called if neighbors have bedbugs? - in detail
If a neighboring unit is infested with bedbugs, the appropriate contacts fall into three categories: building management, local health authorities, and professional pest‑control services.
First, notify the property manager or landlord. They are responsible for maintaining habitability standards and can arrange inspection, coordinate remediation, and enforce lease provisions that require pest‑free premises.
Second, contact the municipal health department. Many jurisdictions consider bedbug outbreaks a public‑health issue and can conduct inspections, issue notices, and, in some cases, provide resources for treatment. The department’s website or a quick phone call will confirm the reporting procedure and any required documentation.
Third, engage a licensed exterminator experienced with Cimex lectularius. Choose a company that offers integrated pest‑management, including:
- Thorough inspection and identification.
- Use of approved chemical and non‑chemical treatments.
- Follow‑up monitoring to confirm eradication.
If the landlord or management company fails to act, the health department may intervene, and the tenant can pursue legal remedies such as filing a complaint with a housing authority or seeking compensation through small‑claims court. Document all communications, photographs of the infestation, and receipts for any expenses incurred.
In summary, the chain of action is: inform the building’s administrative authority, report to the local health agency, and arrange for certified extermination. Each step reinforces the others and ensures a coordinated response to eliminate the pest problem.