Bed Bugs in rented homes: Tenant or landlord’s responsibility?

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

bed bugs in a single month. When bed bugs invade a rented property, the question of responsibility arises. Is it the tenant's burden to bear, or should the landlord address the issue?

Defining Responsibility in Bed Bug Infestations

In the United Kingdom, there is no specific legislation that deals with bed bugs. However, Blago Manov, the director of Bed Bug Hunters, explains that the responsibility for managing bed bugs depends on whether the infestation existed in the property when the tenant first moved in. In such cases, the onus falls on the landlord to address the issue.

On the other hand, if a tenant introduces bed bugs into the property, whether through luggage, clothing, secondhand furniture, or visitors, it becomes the tenant's responsibility to handle the problem. Al McClenahan from Justice for Tenants suggests that bed bugs present a more complex situation compared to larger pests like mice. Nonetheless, the general guideline is that bed bugs present at the beginning of the tenancy are the landlord's concern, while those introduced later become the tenant's responsibility.

Another scenario where the landlord may bear responsibility is if the rental property is located in an area requiring a council license. In such cases, the council may impose an obligation on the landlord to maintain a pest-free property. This would compel the landlord to take action against the bed bug infestation. Typically, a licensed property will display a certificate in the entrance hallway.

Addressing Disagreements Over Responsibility

Disagreements between landlords and tenants regarding responsibility for bed bug infestations are not uncommon. Pest control companies can determine the infestation's duration, thereby clarifying the