Bedbugs. The very word produces a shudder in any homeowner, landlord, or tenant. Although they don’t carry diseases, bedbugs are an incredible nuisance. They’re hard to spot and even harder to get rid of. Since they’re small and hardy, people can unwittingly transfer bedbugs via bedding, luggage, or clothing. And once they’ve entered a property, they can migrate through the tiniest of spaces, making them almost unstoppable.
The best way to handle bedbugs is to prevent them in the first place. So, what can a landlord do to forestall a bedbug infestation? Here are some tips for managing (and avoiding) these nasty pests.
Cleaning and Maintenance. A clean, well-maintained living space contributes immensely to keeping bedbugs and other pests at bay. Frequently vacuuming floors and washing bed linens eliminates bugs and makes it easier to spot signs of infestation. Decluttering also minimizes potential hiding places for bedbugs. Additionally, avoiding secondhand furniture and maintaining good seals on windows, walls, and doorways makes it harder for pests to gain entrance.
Inspections. When performing routine inspections, keep an eye out for signs of bedbugs. They may leave behind tiny red or dark stains, yellow exoskeletons, or eggshells. Itchy, irritated bites or a strong, musty smell can be other signs of an infestation. If you suspect bedbugs, act quickly before the problem spreads.
Working with Tenants. Landlords and tenants can avoid a bedbug problem only by working together. Familiarize tenants with bedbug signs and how to report related concerns. Some states require landlords to provide renters with information about bedbugs at the start of a tenancy. Including each party’s pest control responsibilities in the rental agreement can get you and your tenant on the same page.
No matter how much effort you put into prevention, no strategy is foolproof. If you or your tenant find any indication of bedbugs, it’s time to hire a professional.
Extermination. To ensure you completely eradicate bedbugs, contact an experienced exterminator. They’ll need to spray pesticides multiple times over several weeks and may need to treat the entire building. The unit should remain unoccupied until the infestation has cleared, and follow-up treatments and inspections may be necessary. In a multi-unit complex, you must inform all tenants of the issue so they can be wary and take preventive measures.
Determining Who Covers Costs. Tenants may be responsible to pay for extermination since it’s their job to maintain their living space. However, it will depend on how quickly the tenant reported the issue, and whether the landlord can prove tenant culpability.
No landlord wants to consider the logistical and financial stressors of a bedbug infestation. However, preventive measures and good communication may significantly reduce the risk of giving these pests a foothold on your property.
About Rentals America
Rentals America provides full-service property management for residential rental properties. Our team is completely dedicated to property management, and we’re here to help landlords navigate the rental market.
