Is the landlord of a single family home responsible to spray for ants/spiders?
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Is the landlord of a single family home responsible to spray for ants/spiders?
I am a landlord of a single family home. The lease states that the tenants are responsible for routine maintenance and upkeep of the property. The tenants have requested that I get an exterminator to spray for ants and spiders. This has never been a problem in the past. Am I responsible for this?
Asked on July 10, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Kentucky
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
You have unknowingly hit the nail on the head: the lease will govern here. Now, you could as a landlord be subject to an issue involving a warranty of habitability should the house become uninhabitable and regardless of the lease. If this is a preventative measure and there are no ants or spiders present, then I see no need at this point. You will need to judge. Also, the exterminator can be a deduction to you as an expense for carrying the house. Good luck.
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