Is A Landlord Responsible For Pest Control
Landlords often manage seasonal pest treatment and preventive maintenance. Tenants are liable if they are the source of the infestation. To discourage infestation, the lease should compel renters to maintain their units. The contract, for example, should require the renter to maintain their flat clean and to keep dogs from generating a flea infestation.
Typical Pests
Bed bugs are among the most irritating pests. They’re famously challenging to get rid of. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) keeps a comprehensive list of state bed bug legislation on its website. As a landlord, you should be informed of the legislation in your state.
Cockroaches and ants are two more insects drawn to food that has been left out. Suppose you use preventive pest control, the tenant’s duty of the tenant. However, they have an impact on habitability. Thus landlords must address the issues as soon as possible to protect innocent tenants.
State And Local Legislation
Special measures for landlord pest management may exist under state and local regulations. You must be conversant with these laws as a landlord. The implied assurance of habitability is one of the most significant pieces of legislation for pest management in rental buildings.
Habitability Warranty Implied
The implied warranty requires landlords of habitability to keep rental properties fit for human occupancy. It is inferred, which means it does not have to be stated explicitly in the lease. Unfortunately, such a brief definition does not adequately convey the meaning of this phrase. This is because courts in different states interpret the implicit warranty of habitability differently.
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Responsibilities Of A Landlord
Landlords must ensure that buildings meet local rules and that rental units are habitable. Landlords should cover seasonal and preventive pest control for all units.
Landlords must investigate any pest infestation reported by a tenant. Landlords can try DIY pest control methods if there is a problem, but it is probably preferable to engage a landlord pest control company. Professional pest control is required by some state and local laws. Even if you believe the infestation is the tenant’s responsibility, it must be added swiftly so innocent renters are not harmed.
Responsibilities Of Tenants
Tenants are responsible for keeping their flats tidy. That does not imply that it must be pris. It indicates landlords will not accept uneaten food, piled-up rubbish, or filthy living conditions if they attract pests. This is one of the reasons for performing annual checks.
Pets of tenants must be treated for fleas. If the tenant is the only one with pets and the building becomes infested with fleas, you know who’s to blame. Pay for pest control first, then recoup the money from the tenant.
Conclusion
If you satisfy all of your landlord’s responsibilities for pest treatment and comply with relevant laws, you will likely reduce pest problems. You will also be limiting your liability if something does happen. At The Pest Bros, we offer a range of services to help landlords, property managers, and tenants. From general inspections and treatment to pest prevention and maintenance plans, we can help you keep pests out of your property.
