My Apartment Has Bed Bugs! What Can I Do?
Bed bugs are extremely common insects and can be found across the globe; these little critters live in groups, feed off blood, and can grow to around 5-7mm in length. Bed bugs can be pervasive and troublesome to remove, so it is important to be aware of the legislation protecting tenants in the case of bed bug infestation.
How Do I Identify Bed Bugs?
Look for the following signs if you suspect you have a bed bug infestation:
- Blood spots
- Tiny eggs that are white in color and about the size of a seed
- Bed bug fecal matter (ranging in color from a dark red to brown)
- Musty odor
- Reddish stains on bedsheets
- Clusters of bed bug bites on skin
What Should I Do If I Find Bed Bugs?
While you can take some steps independently to mitigate the damage caused by bed bugs, you’ll likely need an exterminator to remove them completely. Here is a list of resources for tenants in the Los Angeles area.
Who Is Responsible For Bedbug Infestations?
When dealing with bed bug infestations, it is generally the landlord’s responsibility to pay for an exterminator. Under California Civil Code Section §1941, landlords are required to provide habitable living conditions for their tenants.
However, if the landlord can prove that the tenant caused the infestation, then it is expected that a tenant may be required to pay for the cost. Under California Civil Code Section §1941.2, tenants are responsible for repairing any damage caused by their neglect or abuse.
How Is Responsibility For Bed Bugs Proven?
Generally, landlords will try to prove a bedbug infestation is a tenant’s fault by providing pictures of an apartment’s sanitation conditions before and after a tenant moved in. Another possibility is the extermination company’s report, which may indicate the likely source of the infestation. If a tenant is proven to have caused the infestation, they are expected to deal with the infestation quickly and efficiently.
However, if there is a dispute about who caused the infestation and you believe there is insufficient evidence, then it is best to get legal advice on the issue.
What Is The Process Of Seeking Legal Action?
In the case that the landlord refuses to cooperate to treat the bed bugs or violates other codes, the tenant may seek legal action and consult a licensed attorney knowledgeable in tenant law.
The tenant will have to prove:
- That the landlord has violated the California Civil Code 1941
- That the landlord has received notice of the bed bugs.
- That the tenant has suffered damages.
We Are Here To Help!
Bed bug infestations are complicated to navigate, and contacting experienced attorneys is crucial. Tenants Law Firm is here to help. Our team specializes in these cases to protect you against landlords who neglect the habitability of the property. Refer to this article for more information on our advocacy for tenants facing bed bug infestations. If you think you are entitled to a bed bug infestation lawsuit, contact us by calling (310) 432-3200 or by using this form.