One of the problems landlords and tenants may encounter is experiencing a bedbug infestation. It is not only annoying because it can cause itchiness, but it is also a health risk. Bedbug bites can cause allergic reactions, which can harm the tenants. Not to mention it will cause stress and can deprive someone of their sleep. As much as possible, we would want to provide the tenants with the utmost comfort. But a bedbug infestation will not make that possible.

The good thing is, there is a solution for this. But whose fault is it when it happens? Is it the landlords who are responsible for inspecting the property for these things? Or is it the tenants who have the responsibility to keep the property clean? Let’s find out.

• Causes of Bedbug Infestation

A lot of factors can result in a bedbug invasion, and we must know what those are. Why? You may encounter conflicts between tenants and landlords because of this. It all boils down to who is accountable, and the only way to find out is to find the cause. A few years ago, some retail brands had a problem with infested clothing. It may happen again anytime. If the tenant happened to buy from these brands, contamination is possible.

Another reason is a dirty environment. The tenant may have neglected cleaning the property and resulted in attracting bugs. Sometimes it may not necessarily be the tenant’s fault. Sometimes an unkept neighboring unit is a reason which affected the tenant’s rental. It does not always mean that if the property is dirty, there is a bedbug infestation. But it does increase the possibility.

The tenant can also bring bugs home from hotels. They can stick to their clothes and luggage. However, they may not notice until it is too late. But it is important to remember that no one wants to experience this, and arguing about it will not help anyone.

• Handling an infestation

After identifying the cause of the problem, it is now time to figure out a solution. It is also essential to do it as soon as possible. The landlord will not want to get it out of hand, and the tenant will not compromise their comfort. If the landlord would blame the tenants for this unfortunate event, it will cause more issues. The tenant may delay reporting problems in the future because they are afraid they will get in trouble.

Under normal circumstances, the landlord would have to take care of the complaint. If you’re wondering, the landlord will also have to pay for the expenses. He can hire exterminators to treat the property.

Although the property owner is responsible, the tenants can also do their part to avoid a bedbug infestation. They can have all their articles of clothing and linen laundered. It will kill bugs, larvae, and eggs that might have been there. After that, they can keep them in sealed bags while they clean the property. They should vacuum all their belongings to make sure they get all of them. They can also declutter and get rid of things they do not use, which can harbor bugs.

The accountability of problems such as these will fall on both landlord and tenant. They have a shared responsibility to make sure an infestation does not happen. As much as possible, the property should remain habitable for the tenants and future renters.

After all, if the property becomes empty, you have to make sure it is ready for the next tenants. The rental should be free of bugs before you post the property listing online. Once determined, publish the listing at Padleads and syndicate it to other websites. Don’t let the bedbugs bite.