Maine Bed Bug Legislation

Ever wonder what you are supposed to do if your tenants have bed bugs? Or your rights as a renter if you find bed bugs in your home? We’re outlining Maine bed bug legislation and the legal course of action for the treatment of a bed bug infestation.

For Landlords

Once a tenant informs his or her landlord that there may be a bed bug infestation, the landlord has five days to hire a pest control company to conduct an inspection. If bed bugs are indeed found, the landlord must contact a pest control company within 10 days to reasonably eradicate the problem. What’s more, the landlord cannot rent a unit that is known to have a bed bug infestation and he must inform renters if an adjoining unit has an infestation or is being treated. And if a prospective tenant asks, the landlord must disclose the last date that the unit or any adjoining units were treated and found to be bed bug free.

For Tenants

A tenant must notify his or her landlord as soon as bed bugs are suspected. Once the landlord arranges for an inspection and any necessary treatment, the tenant will have at least 24 hours’ notice to provide access to the unit. Because bed bugs can hide in unusual, tiny places, the tenant may also have to provide access to personal belongs and other furniture in their home.

The tenant must comply with all reasonable treatment measures that the landlord and pest control company lay out. If not, the tenant could be held financially responsible for any treatments or delays. This includes legal fees if it comes to the landlord having to file any orders. Non-compliance could also lead to eviction.

It’s great to see that Maine is taking bed bugs seriously and outlining guidelines to protect both landlords and tenants. Bed bugs are sneaky, but with watchful eyes and skilled pest control specialists like Maine Bed Bugs and Pest Control, bed bugs will be sent packing! If you are a landlord and need to have a unit or property inspected, call us today at (207) 650-8654.