What Are the Legal Requirements for the Disclosure of Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are a serious problem and should be remedied immediately. In general, if a landlord fails to disclose the presence of bed bugs, the tenant has the right to terminate the lease and move out. Furthermore, the tenant could file a lawsuit seeking compensation for lost property, relocation expenses, and medical bills.

Specific requirements vary by state and city. In Maine, landlords must disclose a home’s history of bed bugs. In New York City, landlords are required to disclose any bed bug infestation within the last year. In California, landlords need to disclose to existing and prospective tenants sufficient information on how to identify and control bed bugs. To protect yourself, it’s a good idea to check your State legislature website for your property’s bed bug laws.