WHAT IS A LANDLORD’S EXPOSURE WITH REGARD TO INFESTATIONS? Landlords often try to blame tenants for infestations, but bed bugs, cockroaches, and termites are not issues that can be ignored. Legally, landlords are bound to address these problems properly.
The specific duties may vary depending on local laws and regulations, but generally, landlords are expected to:
Maintain the property in a habitable condition, free from infestations that can affect the health or safety of the tenants. Conduct regular inspections to identify and address any signs of bed bug, roach and termite activity. Take prompt action to eradicate the insects and prevent further damage. Provide necessary repairs and treatments to eliminate the insects and restore the property to a habitable state.
If a landlord is unresponsive or negligent, and the issue poses a risk to tenant health and safety, tenants may pursue legal action. In some cases, tenants may terminate the lease without penalty, file complaints with local authorities, or escalate the issue to small claims court. When it comes to pests, landlords must take the issue seriously from the start before it becomes a costly legal problem.
NANCY ABRAMS Assistant Editor American Apartment Owners Association (866) 579-2262 nancy@aaoa.com
Nancy Abrams has enjoyed a long career in real estate marketing throughout Southern California and Las Vegas. She formerly represented 19 Merrill Lynch Realty branch offices, property managers The Roberts Companies, new home developers, including master planned communities Peccole Ranch and The Valencia Company and shopping centers for Sandy Sigel of NewMark Merrill.
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