Who Pays for Bed Bug Extermination in An Apartment?
Who Pays for Bed Bug Extermination in An Apartment?
Bed bugs have become an increasing problem in homes and apartments across the United States, and with them comes the question: who pays for their extermination? The answer depends on a variety of factors.
Who is Responsible for Bed Bug Control?
Generally, it is the responsibility of the tenant or resident to keep the property free from bed bugs. This could mean proactively taking measures to avoid an infestation, such as avoiding second hand furniture or properly storing clothing, as well as properly reporting any evidence of an infestation and taking immediate action to eradicate the problem.
However, if the landlord is aware of an infestation before the tenant moves in or while they are living there, it is the landlord’s responsibility to take care of the extermination.
What Does Bed Bug Extermination Involve?
Bed bug extermination often requires a three-step process:
- Inspection and diagnosis. Professional exterminators will assess the situation, including any potential areas where bed bugs may be living, hiding, or breeding.
- Treatment. Depending on the size of the infestation, and whether any other pests (such as fleas) are present, the exterminator will specify the proper treatment plan and the appropriate pesticides to use.
- Follow-up. After initial extermination, follow-up visits will be necessary to ensure bed bugs have been eliminated, and to identify and treat any new hot spots.
Who Pays for Bed Bug Extermination?
Whether the tenant or landlord pays for the extermination depends on a few things:
- State and local laws. In some states, it is legal for a landlord to pass the cost of extermination onto tenants. In other states, it is illegal to do so. It is important to check the laws in your local area for more information.
- Landlord/tenant agreement. Again, it is important to check the landlord/tenant agreement for more information on bed bug extermination costs. It may specify who is responsible for payment.
- The source of the infestation. If a tenant brought bed bugs into the property, then the tenant is responsible for extermination costs. If the landlord is at fault, then they must cover any extermination costs.
Bed bug extermination can be expensive, so it is important to know who is responsible for taking care of it. Knowing your rights and researching the laws of your state and local area is the best way to protect yourself.
