Who is responsible for extermination costs and property loss with a bed bug infestation in an apartment?
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Who is responsible for extermination costs and property loss with a bed bug infestation in an apartment?
Other tenants have recently had bed bugs. Management claims we are responsible for half the extermination costs and they will cover no loss in personal property (such as bed mattresses, and furniture).
Asked on June 11, 2009 under Real Estate Law, Ohio
Answers:
J.V., Member, New Jersey Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 15 years ago | Contributor
In situations such as this the costs would almost always fall on the management to pay. The only reason it would not would be if the lease expressly stated such. Even then an argument can be made although not as persuasive that the agreement is unenforceable.
If management refuses to pay you may want to consider speaking with a local attorney who specializes in this area of law. They may even know of the management company and if not they will know how best to handle the situation to ensure it is taken care of as quickly as possible.
In short you can even contact the management company explain you don't want to pursue this legally but will if they give you no choice, see if an agreement can be reached and if not try to find an attorney to help you out
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