Bed bugs aren’t only the concern of homeowners. They’re also a problem for renters. These troublesome pests can quickly spread through apartments, duplexes, and rental homes, and when they do it becomes the responsibility of the landlord or property manager. Fortunately, landlords can seriously reduce the risk of bed bug problems in their properties and more effectively manage any infestations by following a few simple tips.
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Know the Signs of Bed Bugs
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The first step in dealing with bed bugs is getting to know the enemy and learning to recognize the warning signs. Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed. They tend to hide in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, and other areas near where people sleep.
A tenant reporting unexplained bites might be a landlord’s first indication that there is a problem brewing. But other warning signs should not be ignored, such as dark fecal spots on mattresses or furniture, shed skins, tiny white eggs, or live insects.
Landlords, as well as maintenance personnel, should learn what the evidence of bed bugs looks like. Early recognition can make treatment much easier and reduce the chances of the pests spreading to other units.
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Take Tenant Reports Seriously
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When a tenant reports possible bed bugs it is important not to dismiss or ignore the complaint. Even if the tenant is unsure of what they have found the report requires prompt attention. Bed bugs can move from one location to another via luggage, clothing furniture, and walls. In multifamily properties an infestation can spread quickly, so a prompt response to reports of bed bugs is critical.
Avoid blaming or embarrassing your tenants. Bed bugs will infest clean homes, luxury apartments, and five star hotels. Your tenants didn’t cause the problem. Treat the situation as a pest management issue rather than a housekeeping problem.
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Schedule Professional Inspections
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If at any time bed bugs are suspected you should arrange for a qualified pest control professional to inspect your property. An inspection can help determine if bed bugs are present, identify the problem areas, and establish a treatment program if necessary.
In multifamily buildings, it may be advisable to schedule inspections of any adjacent units as well. Bed bugs can spread between apartments, particularly in buildings with shared walls and utility pathways. If bed bugs are present, and treatment is necessary, adjoining units may also require professional attention.
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Establish a Clear Bed Bug Policy
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Landlords and property management should adopt a clear and easy to understand bed bug policy. This should explain how tenants should report suspected bed bug infestations, what landlords will do following a report, and what preparation may be required before treatment.
Make the reporting process as easy as possible for your tenants. They should know precisely who to contact and what information to provide.
A written policy also helps landlords respond consistently rather than making responding on a case by case basis. It is also important that your established policy complies with any applicable state or local housing laws. These can vary according to region, so landlords and property owners should check local regulations to be certain they are in compliance.
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Educate Your Tenants
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When a tenant signs their lease you should provide them with information about recognizing bed bugs, preventing their spread, and reporting potential infestations. Tenants should understand that they are not to move infested mattresses, furniture, or other belongings in another room or apartment so as to avoid spreading the problem to other areas of the building.
Educational materials can also explain why tenants should avoid using do-it-yourself treatments without professional guidance. Improper use of pesticides may not only be ineffective, they can create safety concerns and further exacerbate the infestation.
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Be Careful with Used Furniture
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Any secondhand furniture should be thoroughly inspected before it enters a rental property. Mattresses and box springs should get special attention as they provide an abundance of hiding places for bed bugs.
Landlords and property managers should also discourage tenants from bringing discarded furniture into their apartments. If furniture must be removed because of an infestation, follow all appropriate disposal procedures so others don’t unknowing take in infested items.
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Act Quickly and Follow Through
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Perhaps the most important tip for landlords is to respond quickly to bed bug reports and to remain involved throughout the treatment process. Bed bug control often requires more than a single visit, depending on the size of the infestation.
Follow the recommendations of your pest control professional and make sure tenants understand preparation instructions. After treatment, continue monitoring for bed bug activity. Bed bugs are experts at hiding, and successful control may require follow-up treatments.
Protect Your Property and Your Tenants
Bed bugs can be a challenge for landlords, but preparation and prompt action can make a big difference. Landlords should view bed bug management as an ongoing property maintenance responsibility. An organized response protects tenants, limits the potential for spread, and helps prevent a small problem from becoming a much larger, and frankly more expensive, headache.
Published by Scott Palatnik
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